Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a delightfully easy dish that’s filled with tender meatballs, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s not heavy or overly complicated either. I think it’s a perfect weeknight or comfort food meal, and if you’re not a meatball fan, feel free to use your favorite protein.
It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a simple & hearty dinner that’s not overly fussy, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a dish with minimal prep and maximum flavor, you get the perfect casserole. The addition of cheese just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for cozy dinners and this satisfying casserole reminds me of home-cooked meals & family gatherings. Not a fan of meatballs? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious without them.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 (12-16 oz) package of frozen meatballs
- 1 (16 oz) box of uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work well)
- 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
- 3 cups water
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and water.
- Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add Meatballs and Seasoning:
- Add the frozen meatballs to the baking dish, distributing them evenly.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the meatballs and pasta.
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your easy, cheesy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole.
Enjoy your Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole, a simple yet delicious meal perfect for busy nights or family dinners!
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 1 12-16 oz package of frozen meatballs
- 1 16 oz box of uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work well)
- 1 24 oz jar of marinara sauce
- 3 cups water
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and water.
- Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add Meatballs and Seasoning:
- Add the frozen meatballs to the baking dish, distributing them evenly.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the meatballs and pasta.
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your easy, cheesy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole.
- Enjoy your Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole, a simple yet delicious meal perfect for busy nights or family dinners!
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