Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Meatball Sub Pasta

Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Meatball Sub Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of classic meatball subs with the heartiness of pasta. It’s easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe shines because it uses only four main ingredients, saving you time and effort. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese makes for a filling meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s all baked in one dish, which means easy cleanup afterward!

How to Make Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Meatball Sub Pasta

Ingredients:

1 pound penne pasta
1 bag (24 to 32 ounces) frozen fully cooked meatballs
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
2 to 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Heat the oven to 375°F. Cook the penne in well-salted water until just shy of tender, then drain it well.
In a large bowl or right in the foil tray, stir together the cooked penne, frozen meatballs, and marinara sauce until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture into an even layer, cover the tray tightly with foil, and bake for 25 minutes so the meatballs heat through and the sauce bubbles around the pasta.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the top, and return the tray to the oven uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden in spots.
Let the pasta rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so it can settle a bit and scoop out nicely.

How to Serve Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Meatball Sub Pasta

Serve this delicious pasta in bowls or plates, and you can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese on top. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Meatball Sub Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual servings.

Tips to Make Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Meatball Sub Pasta

Make sure to salt the pasta water well for the best flavor.
You can use any shape of pasta you like, such as ziti or rotini.
For a little extra spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.

Variation

If you want to customize this dish, try adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach before baking. You can also use different types of cheese, such as provolone or parmesan, for varied flavors.