Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake

Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake

Introduction

If you love comfort food that is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. Tender pasta coated in a savory sauce, juicy golden-browned meatballs, and a blanket of melted cheese baked until bubbly and irresistible. It is the kind of family-style dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and brings everyone to the table fast. Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients

For the meatballs
500 g ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tablespoons milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the pasta and sauce
400 g elbow macaroni or small pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

For topping
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the meatballs
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic, Parmesan, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Mix gently until just combined. Form into small bite-sized meatballs.
2. Cook the meatballs
   Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides until fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the cheese sauce
   In a large saucepan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 to 2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add heavy cream and cook until the sauce thickens.

Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Add paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

5. Assemble the bake
   Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
   In a large baking dish, combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Mix well. Gently fold in the cooked meatballs.

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.

6. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is melted, golden, and bubbly.
7. Garnish and serve
   Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Methods and Tips

For extra flavor, add sautéed onions to the sauce.
You can use half beef and half ground turkey for a lighter version.
Add a little chili flakes if you like a spicy kick.
Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.

Benefits

High in protein from the beef and cheese.
Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
Family-friendly and customizable.
Perfect comfort food for colder days.

Nutrition Approximation per serving

Calories: 620 to 700
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 38 g

Conclusion

This Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake is creamy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. The juicy meatballs paired with rich cheese sauce and perfectly baked pasta make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a simple green salad or garlic bread and enjoy a comforting homemade meal that tastes like pure love.