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Shortcut Meatball Pasta Bake

For a delicious and simple weeknight meal, check this easy casserole recipe out. Always a big hit with family. Great for potluck dinners too. Enjoy!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, Italian
Keyword casserole, meatballs, pasta
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Author Pam

Ingredients

  • 1 16 ounce box penne pasta
  • 1 jar approx. 25 ounce size of your favorite bottled marinara sauce
  • 16-20 frozen meatballs, use a favorite brand
  • 1 1/2 cups frozen or fresh mixed sliced peppers
  • 1/2 cup grated cheese, mozzarella or mild cheddar works well
  • 1/2 tsp each garlic and onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric, optional
  • 1/8-1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. 1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees, have a large casserole or baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Set aside.

    2.Cook pasta to al dente. Try not to over cook and make too soft. Drain and pour into casserole dish.

    3.Pour sauce over pasta and gently mix in.

    4.Microwave the meatballs just until they are not frozen solid. Set aside while you add the other ingredients.

    5.Toss in parmesan, grated cheddar or mozzarella, along with garlic, onion, and turmeric powders. Mix gently. Add in the peppers. They can be frozen or microwave just a minute or two to soften them up a bit.

    6.Fold in the meatballs. Mix gently not to break them apart. (Save a few for garnishing the top of casserole as shown in photo)

    7.Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes until hot. You will probably see some bubbling. Take out, let sit on the counter for a few minutes. Sprinkle a little more Parmesan, this is optional.

    Enjoy!