I call it a back pocket pasta because it’s simply a good pasta recipe to have on hand! It has all of your favorite pasta flavors, it’s quick, really easy to make and I’m officially claiming it our new go-to pasta and meatballs recipe! Plus, I think everyone needs a few back pocket recipes that you can easily whip up and know the whole family will love it. Family dinner win? Yes.Please. There is nothing better than the smell of pasta, meatballs, red sauce and cheese baking in the oven. It’s a classic comfort and you’re going to love my shortcut hack. A few other back-pocket pasta favorites you’ll love include this Ground Turkey Shell Pasta, Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta and this nostalgic Hamburger Macaroni.
Rigatoni: You’ll add uncooked rigatoni noodles directly into the casserole dish and they cook in the oven! A 12 oz. box (about 4 cups) is all you’ll need. Store-bought marinara sauce: Use your favorite sauce! We love using Rao’s. (I use the 28 oz. sauce) Plus more sauce as desired. Fresh mozzarella: I recommend using fresh, low moisture mozzarella. It melts (and tastes) much more beautifully in the casserole compared to pre-shredded cheese. Meatballs: This recipe uses a modified version of these beef meatballs. It’s a straightforward recipe using ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, an egg, onion and some seasonings. It’s absolutely delicious! Garnish ideas: fresh basil and Parmigiano Reggiano
