Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Bake
with Cavatappi and a Crispy Panko Topping
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Bake
Tender meatballs baked with cavatappi and a golden panko crust, with gooey mozzarella in every bite. A cozy, cheesy pasta bake that’s hearty and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
For 2 servings
- 6 ounce Cavatappi Pasta
- 13.76 ounce Crushed Tomatoes
- 4 ounce Fresh Mozzarella
- 10 ounce Ground Beef
- ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1.5 ounce Tomato Paste
- 1 tablespoon Tuscan Heat Spice
- 1 unit Yellow Onion
Additional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon Butter
- 4 teaspoon Olive Oil
- Pepper
- Salt
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vegetable Oil

American
PDF
DifficultyEasy
Total Time45m
Calories1130
Protein50g
Carbs105g
Fat58g
Tags:
Protein SmartFiber SmartMass Gain FriendlyFamily Friendly
⚠️Allergens:
🥛Milk🌾WheatSwaps and substitutions
For a dairy-free version, use a melting plant-based cheese in place of the mozzarella and a dairy-free butter or oil if needed for serving. To avoid wheat, choose gluten-free pasta and swap the breadcrumb topping for gluten-free crumbs or crushed crackers.
What to serve with it
Serve with a simple green salad or garlicky broccoli to balance the rich pasta and meatballs. Warm bread on the side suits the saucy tomato base, and a light red wine or sparkling water keeps the meal easygoing.
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