Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

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If you’re looking for a hassle-free, comforting meal that requires minimal effort, this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the perfect choice. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a cheesy, hearty dish that the whole family will love. There’s no need for pre-cooking, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

A One-Pan Pasta Dish

This casserole is all about convenience without compromising on flavor. Everything cooks together in one dish, allowing the pasta to soak up the rich tomato sauce while the meatballs become tender and juicy. The final touch of melted cheese brings everything together for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Pre-Cooking Required – The pasta and meatballs cook right in the baking dish, eliminating extra steps and dishes.
• Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and frozen meatballs for an easy, budget-friendly meal.
• Family-Friendly – A cheesy, saucy dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Customizable – Add veggies, different cheeses, or spices to make it your own.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

When time is short, but you still want a homemade meal, this dump-and-bake casserole delivers. Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy—no need to stand over the stove. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a meal-prep option, this dish is a winner every time.

Ingredients for Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

To make this delicious, easy casserole, you’ll need just a few essential ingredients:

• Pasta – Use uncooked rotini, penne, or ziti for the best texture.
• Frozen Meatballs – Pre-cooked meatballs make this recipe quick and effortless.
• Marinara Sauce – A jar of your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
• Water or Broth – Helps cook the pasta to perfection.
• Italian Seasoning – Adds extra flavor and depth to the dish.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts into a gooey, irresistible topping.
• Parmesan Cheese – Optional but adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil – For garnish and an extra pop of color.

How to Make Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

This simple, no-fuss recipe comes together in just a few easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In the baking dish, mix the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water or broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 3: Add the Meatballs

Arrange the frozen meatballs evenly over the pasta mixture, ensuring they are slightly submerged in the liquid to cook properly.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, and return to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm and enjoy!

How Long to Bake Meatball Casserole

Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the type of pasta used. Here are some general guidelines:

• Regular Pasta – Bake covered for 35-40 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
• Gluten-Free Pasta – May require a few extra minutes of baking time to ensure tenderness.
• Homemade Meatballs – If using raw homemade meatballs, increase the covered baking time to 45 minutes.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious:

• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezer – Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for the Best Meatball Casserole

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the Right Pasta – Sturdier pasta shapes like penne and rotini hold up best in a baked dish.
• Use Enough Liquid – The pasta absorbs liquid as it bakes, so ensure it’s fully covered to avoid dryness.
• Add More Flavor – Try adding sautéed onions, garlic, or red pepper flakes for extra depth.
• Experiment with Cheese – Mix in some cheddar or provolone for a richer, more complex flavor.

This easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Enjoy a satisfying, homemade meal with minimal effort!

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