Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a simple, hearty one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, and marinara sauce, this casserole is baked until bubbly and topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting Italian-inspired dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs and Sauce
- 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups water or beef broth
Pasta and Seasonings
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping and Garnish
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the baking dish, add the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water or beef broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until evenly mixed.
- Initial Baking: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook and the meatballs to heat through.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil carefully, stir the casserole to redistribute ingredients, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Final Bake to Melt Cheese: Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Cool Slightly and Garnish: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes for easier serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve: Serve the casserole hot and enjoy a flavorful, comforting meal.
Notes
- Using beef broth instead of water enhances the casserole’s flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Frozen meatballs do not need to be thawed before assembling the casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses for variation.
