Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a no-fuss, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting,
cheesy dish that’s full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply combine everything in one dish, bake, and enjoy a deliciously hearty meal.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients Overview
- Frozen Meatballs: The star of this recipe, providing protein and hearty flavor.
- Pasta: Choose a small pasta like penne or rotini for even cooking.
- Marinara Sauce: Adds rich, tomato-based flavor.
- Water or Broth: Ensures the pasta cooks perfectly in the oven.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a gooey topping that ties the dish together.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning and garlic powder add depth to the casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 (24-ounce) bag frozen meatballs
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine Ingredients
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water (or broth), Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir everything together to combine.
3. Cover and Bake
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Bake Again
- Remove the foil and stir the casserole. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Meatballs: If you prefer fresh or homemade meatballs, cook them beforehand to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Try Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for a blend of cheddar or Parmesan for a twist in flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For a nutritious boost, mix in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Serve with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus make excellent vegetable pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pasta instead of dry pasta?
Fresh pasta is not recommended for this recipe because it cooks too quickly and might become mushy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from chilled.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. It’s hearty, satisfying, and always a hit with both kids and adults! For added flair, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or red pepper flakes before serving.
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 24-ounce bag frozen meatballs
- 2 cups uncooked pasta penne, rotini, or ziti
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine Ingredients
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, add the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water (or broth), Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir everything together to combine.
- Cover and Bake
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Bake Again
- Remove the foil and stir the casserole. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Leave a Reply