1-First Step: Get the oven and baking dish ready Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil. This small step helps keep the pasta from sticking and makes cleanup much easier later. If you are using frozen meatballs, let them sit out briefly while you prep the rest of the dish so they can warm up just a bit.

2-Second Step: Cook the pasta just until al dente Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 16 ounces of pasta according to the package directions, but stop 1 to 2 minutes early so it stays al dente. That matters because the pasta will keep cooking in the oven. Drain it well, but do not rinse it. A little starch helps the sauce cling to every piece. While the pasta cooks, you can also make homemade meatballs if you are using them. Mix the ground beef, minced garlic, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined. Do not overmix, or the meatballs can turn tough. Shape into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. If you want extra browning, sear them in a skillet for a few minutes before baking, but this is optional.

3-Third Step: Combine the pasta, sauce, and meatballs In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the 24 ounces of marinara sauce until everything is coated. If the mixture looks a little dry, add a splash of water or more sauce. Add the 1 pound of frozen pre-cooked Italian meatballs or the homemade meatballs and gently fold them in so they do not break apart. Spread about half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella over the top, then add the remaining pasta mixture. Finish with the rest of the cheese. This layering gives you a nice cheesy center and a golden top.

4-Fourth Step: Bake until bubbly and golden Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. If you want a little extra browning on top, turn on the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, but watch it closely. Cheese can go from perfect to toasted in a hurry. If your meatballs are fully cooked already, this bake is mostly about heating everything through and letting the flavors mingle. If you used homemade meatballs that were not pre-cooked, make sure they are cooked through before serving.

5-Final Step: Finish and serve Let the pasta bake rest for 5 to 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. That helps the sauce settle and makes it easier to scoop. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the top if you are using it. The basil adds a fresh pop of color and a little brightness that balances the rich cheese and sauce. Serve it warm with garlic bread, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables if you want to round out the meal. This is the kind of dinner that works just as well for a busy Tuesday as it does for a casual weekend gathering.