Looking to indulge in a comforting, creamy, and delicious pasta dish? A homemade cheesy meatball pasta bake is just what you need! This recipe combines tender meatballs with al dente pasta smothered in a rich, savory sauce. Here’s how you can make this hearty meal.
#### Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne pasta
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
#### Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for breadcrumbs and Parmesan
- Deep baking dish
- Saucepan
- Colander
- Measuring spoons and cups
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
1. **Mix Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. **Form Meatballs**: Using your hands or a small spoon, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
#### Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Brown Meatballs**: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook meatballs for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until they are browned and cooked through.
3. **Drain and Set Aside**: Place the cooked meatballs in a colander to drain any excess fat.
#### Step 3: Cook Pasta
1. **Boil Water**: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. **Cook Pasta**: Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain in a colander and set aside.
#### Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
1. **Combine Ingredients**: In a medium saucepan, combine tomato sauce, milk, remaining 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. **Simmer**: Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
#### Step 5: Assemble the Pasta Bake
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Layer Ingredients**: In a deep baking dish, start by layering half of the cooked pasta, then top with meatballs.
3. **Add Sauce and Cheese**: Pour over the sauce mixture and sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
4. **Repeat Layers**: Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up.
#### Step 6: Bake
1. **Bake Until Golden**: Place baking dish in preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
2. **Cool and Serve**: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
#### Step 7: Enjoy!
Serve this cheesy meatball pasta bake hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan if desired. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a comforting weeknight meal.
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious homemade cheesy meatball pasta bake that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy your meal!