Marinara sauce is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Its rich flavor and vibrant color can transform any dish into a comforting meal. If you’re ready to spice up your weeknight dinners, keep reading for some delicious ideas!
Baked Ziti


Easy Baked Ziti from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, jar spaghetti sauce, ziti pasta, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese Total Time: 1 hr.

Easy Baked Ziti from The Kitchn
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Penne pasta, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, mozzarella cheese Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.

Baked Ziti from Once Upon a Chef
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Sweet italian sausage, ziti noodles, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, mozzarella cheese Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.
Baked ziti is the ultimate comfort food, with layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese coming together for a delightful experience. This dish is baked to perfection, giving it a crispy top while keeping the insides wonderfully creamy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe shines because it combines simple ingredients into a hearty meal that feels special. Each bite bursts with flavors from the marinara, the creaminess of ricotta, and the melty mozzarella. Plus, it’s super easy to make ahead of time, so you can enjoy it even on your busiest days!
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Marinara Meatballs


Mom's Meatballs and Marinara Sauce from The Beach House Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Ground beef, san marzano, red pepper flakes, parmesan cheese, olive oil Total Time: 50 min.

Hearty Italian Meatballs with Homemade Marinara Sauce from The Mini Chef
Rating: 3.9. Ingredients: Ground beef, ground pork, san marzano tomatoes, panko bread crumbs, parchment paper Total Time: 1 hr 5 min.

Meatballs in Marinara Sauce from The Whole Cook
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Lean ground turkey, olive oil, crushed tomatoes, egg, garlic Total Time: 45 min.
Marinara meatballs are a classic dish that never goes out of style. Tender, juicy meatballs are simmered in marinara sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors. Serve them over spaghetti, in a sub, or simply on their own for a satisfying treat.
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups marinara sauce
The magic of this recipe lies in the way the meatballs absorb the marinara, creating a savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re also versatile enough to be served in various ways, making them a family favorite. Plus, they’re fun to make, especially when you can get the kids involved!
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Eggplant Parmesan


Classic Eggplant Parmesan from A Simple Palate
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 1 h 20 min Total Time: 1 h 20 min.
Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful vegetarian option that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The eggplant slices are breaded and baked until golden, then layered with marinara sauce and cheese for an irresistible dish. This meal is not only tasty but also a great way to enjoy your veggies!
- 1 large eggplant, sliced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- Olive oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe is special because it transforms simple eggplant into a decadent dish that even meat lovers will enjoy. The combination of crispy breading, tangy marinara, and melty cheese makes every bite a delight. It’s also perfect for meal prep; just pop it in the oven and let it bake while you relax!
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Marinara Shrimp Pasta

Shrimp and Penne Pasta with Creamy Marinara Sauce from ZagLeft
Ingredients: Penne pasta, marinara sauce, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, butter Total Time: 45 min.

Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Marinara Sauce (Whole30, Keto, Paleo) from Nom Nom Paleo
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, capers, olive oil, per pound Total Time: 20 min.
If you’re looking for something quick but fancy, marinara shrimp pasta is the answer. Juicy shrimp are sautéed and tossed with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make. This recipe is light yet filling, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
This recipe stands out because it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings. The flavors of the shrimp paired with the marinara create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seafood in a fun and approachable way!
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Stuffed Bell Peppers with Marinara

Italian Stuffed Peppers from Cooking with Mamma C
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious dish that brings joy to the dinner table. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and marinara sauce, packed with flavor and nutrition. They’re perfect for a family meal, as each person gets their own delicious pepper!
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe is loved for its vibrant presentation and wholesome ingredients. Each stuffed pepper is a complete meal in itself, with protein, carbs, and veggies all in one package! Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover rice or meat you have on hand.
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Marinara Pizza
Homemade marinara pizza is a fun way to get creative in the kitchen. With a crispy crust topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings, this dish is perfect for a family pizza night. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible!
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.)
- Olive oil for brushing
This recipe is special because it allows everyone to customize their pizza just the way they like it. The marinara sauce adds a rich, tangy base that complements the cheese and toppings perfectly. Plus, making pizza at home is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy together!