Print

“30-Minute Cheesy Meatball Shell Pasta – Heavenly Comfort Food”

cheesy meatball shell pasta
Print Recipe

A hearty and cheesy pasta dish with meatballs in marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz jumbo shell pasta (or medium shells)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup water (or low-sodium chicken broth)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley or basil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown for 4–5 minutes (or heat through if fully cooked).
  3. Pour in marinara sauce and water. Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add cooked shells to the skillet and toss to coat. Simmer 2–3 minutes so the pasta soaks up the sauce.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Sprinkle mozzarella over the top (and Parmesan if using). Cover 2–3 minutes, until melted and stretchy.
  6. Garnish with parsley/basil and serve hot with extra sauce and pepper.

Notes

  • For extra spice, add red pepper flakes.
  • Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy meatball shell pasta, meatball pasta recipe, pasta shells in marinara, cheesy pasta dinner, easy Italian dinner, one pan pasta

Find it online: https://jessicarecipe.com/cheesy-meatball-shell-pasta-recipe/