Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate comfort food made easy! Simply dump all the ingredients into a baking dish, and let the oven do the work. With juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and effortless to prepare. It’s family-friendly, packed with flavor, and ready in no time!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb frozen meatballs (about 20 meatballs)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or ziti)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large baking dish (9×13 inches), spread the uncooked pasta evenly on the bottom. Place the frozen meatballs on top of the pasta.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta. Add 1/2 cup of water to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Sprinkle the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper over the casserole for seasoning.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are heated through.
- Add Cheese:
- After 35 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your easy and delicious meatball casserole!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge.
- Cheese Variations: You can substitute the mozzarella cheese with provolone, cheddar, or any cheese you prefer. For extra flavor, add some Italian seasoning to the cheese.
- Add Veggies: For a healthier twist, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the casserole.
- Meatball Options: Use your favorite homemade or store-bought meatballs, or even turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg