Cheesy Meatball Ziti

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that brings the whole family together, look no further than Cheesy Meatball Ziti. This dish combines juicy, flavorful meatballs with perfectly cooked pasta, silky marinara sauce, and a blanket of gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s a classic Italian-American favorite that’s easy to make and sure to become a dinner table staple. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this recipe delivers big on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something so satisfying about a dish that’s both simple and indulgent. Cheesy Meatball Ziti hits that sweet spot effortlessly. I love how the meatballs are tender and packed with herbs and cheese, perfectly seasoned and moist thanks to the breadcrumbs and egg. Tossed with ziti pasta and a vibrant marinara sauce, it’s comfort food that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. Plus, the melted mozzarella on top adds that irresistible golden crust that everyone fights over. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for meal prep or feeding hungry kids after a long day.

The Essentials

• 1 pound ground beef – Choose lean for less grease, but not too lean to keep meatballs juicy.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the meatballs.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Brings freshness and color to the meatballs.
• 1 egg – The binder that holds everything together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds savory depth without overpowering.
• 2 cups marinara sauce – Rich and tangy, it ties the dish together.
• 2 cups ziti pasta – The perfect shape to catch sauce and cheese.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – For that gooey, melty topping everyone loves.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.

Essential Tools for Success

• Large mixing bowl – To mix the meatball ingredients evenly.
• Large pot – For boiling the ziti pasta.
• Skillet or frying pan – To brown the meatballs before baking.
• Baking dish or casserole dish – To assemble and bake the ziti.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce and pasta.
• Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.

Cheesy Meatball Ziti — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Shape and Brown the Meatballs

Form the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with marinara sauce, gently mixing to coat. Nestle the browned meatballs evenly throughout the pasta.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the top of the ziti and meatballs. A little extra Parmesan can be added here if you like a cheesier crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the Cheesy Meatball Ziti to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, and enjoy a warm, cheesy, comforting meal.

Tailor It to Your Diet

• Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
• Try a dairy-free mozzarella cheese alternative to make it suitable for lactose intolerance.
• Add finely chopped vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.

Method to the Madness

This recipe balances simple ingredients and straightforward techniques to create a dish that feels homemade and comforting. The key is to not overwork the meatball mixture and to brown them just enough to develop flavor without drying them out. Cooking the pasta al dente is essential so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven. The layering of sauce, pasta, and cheese ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and gooey texture. Baking at the right temperature lets the cheese melt perfectly, creating that irresistible crust that elevates the whole dish.

Save It for Later

Cheesy Meatball Ziti is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can assemble it in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. This recipe also freezes beautifully—just assemble, freeze before baking, and bake from frozen by adding extra time.

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ziti works perfectly because of its shape and size, penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni will work well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What’s the best way to keep meatballs from falling apart?

Mix the ingredients gently and use the egg and breadcrumbs as binders. Browning the meatballs helps them hold their shape better when baked. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep them tender.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the meatballs with store-bought vegetarian or plant-based meatballs or make your own using lentils, mushrooms, or textured vegetable protein. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I get the cheese to be perfectly melted and bubbly?

Baking the assembled dish at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes usually does the trick. For an extra bubbly top, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Keep Cooking

• Love meatballs? Try my flavorful Sweet Chili Meatball Subs for a spicy twist.
• Looking for a fresh pasta sauce? Check out this vibrant Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil recipe for a lighter option.

Save & Share

If you make this Cheesy Meatball Ziti, don’t forget to save the recipe for easy access next time you crave comfort food. Share it with friends and family who appreciate a home-cooked, cheesy pasta dish. It’s perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.

Cheesy Meatball Ziti is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate—rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. It brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step by step to a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a cozy dinner everyone will love!

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