Cheesy Baked Meatballs and Pasta Casserole

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
Drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs, then bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
Cook the Pasta:

While the meatballs are baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Casserole:

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce. Add in the baked meatballs and stir gently to combine.
Transfer the pasta and meatball mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Add garlic powder and red pepper flakes if using, for extra flavor.
Bake the Casserole:

Bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you prefer a golden, crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serve:

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips: