Creamy Baked Meatball Alfredo Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that combines the comforting heartiness of meatballs with the luscious, velvety richness of Alfredo sauce, this Creamy Baked Meatball Alfredo Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together tender, flavorful meatballs, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a dreamy baked Alfredo sauce topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and makes an impressive meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Creamy Baked Meatball Alfredo Pasta truly stand out is its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Unlike traditional meatball pasta dishes, the meatballs here are baked right inside the creamy Alfredo sauce, allowing their juices to mingle with the sauce, creating an ultra-rich and flavorful experience. The penne pasta holds onto the sauce perfectly, and the golden, bubbly cheese topping adds a delightful crispy contrast. It’s comfort food elevated with minimal fuss, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

What Goes Into Creamy Baked Meatball Alfredo Pasta

• 1 pound ground beef – for juicy, tender meatballs
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – to bind the meatballs and keep them moist
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds sharp, nutty flavor to the meatballs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – brings freshness and color
• 1 large egg – binds the meatball mixture together
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – infuses savory depth
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
• 8 ounces penne pasta – the perfect pasta shape to hold sauce and cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream – the base of the rich Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully on top
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping – adds a crispy, flavorful crust
• Olive oil for greasing dish – prevents sticking and adds subtle flavor

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large mixing bowl – for combining meatball ingredients
• Large pot – to boil the penne pasta
• Oven-safe baking dish (around 9×13 inches) – to bake the pasta and meatballs together
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient amounts
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic and parsley
• Grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese

Creamy Baked Meatball Alfredo Pasta Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until just al dente, usually about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a medium saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Pasta and Meatballs

Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil. Spread the cooked pasta evenly in the dish. Nestle the raw meatballs evenly throughout the pasta. Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the pasta and meatballs, making sure everything is well coated.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Ingredient Flex Options

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them for a gluten-free dish.
• Substitute heavy cream with a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce.
• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies.
• Use penne rigate or rigatoni pasta for even better sauce clinging.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Overmixing the meatball mixture can lead to tough, dense meatballs.
• Don’t overcook the pasta before baking; it will become mushy after baking.
• Make sure the sauce is warm and smooth before pouring over pasta to ensure even cooking.
• Underbaking can result in raw meatballs; always check for doneness.
• Avoid skipping the olive oil greasing step to prevent sticking and messy clean-up.

Save It for Later

This Creamy Baked Meatball Alfredo Pasta reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Popular Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure the meatballs are cooked through and the dish is heated evenly.

What’s the best cheese to use in Alfredo sauce?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is essential for authentic Alfredo flavor. Combining it with mozzarella on top adds a lovely melty texture and golden crust, but you can also experiment with asiago or fontina.

Can I freeze Creamy Baked Meatball Alfredo Pasta?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Is there a way to lighten this dish without losing flavor?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use Greek yogurt stirred in at the end for a tangy twist. Using lean ground turkey and reducing the cheese slightly can also help lighten the dish.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Chicken Parmesan Alfredo Bake – a cheesy, baked pasta dish with crispy chicken and creamy sauce.
• Baked Chicken Alfredo Penne Casserole – a comforting casserole with tender chicken and rich Alfredo sauce.

See You at the Table

This Creamy Baked Meatball Alfredo Pasta is a guaranteed winner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this dish delivers comfort and indulgence with every bite. Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of your favorite drink, and you’re all set for a memorable meal. Happy cooking!

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