Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole 😍
Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a quick and convenient comfort dish that combines the savory goodness of juicy meatballs with pasta and cheese in a single baking dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this casserole requires minimal prep and no pre-cooking. Frozen or pre-cooked meatballs are layered with uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese, then baked until the pasta is tender, the sauce is bubbling, and the cheese is golden and gooey. With just a few ingredients and a “dump-and-bake” method, this one-pan meal is a stress-free, family-friendly favourite that delivers hearty, homemade flavour without the fuss.
Ingredients:
-1 bag (about 24 oz) frozen meatballs
-1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
-3 cups water
-1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
-12 oz uncooked pasta (penne, ziti, or rigatoni)
-Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Combine Ingredients:
In a large baking dish (9×13 inches), combine the frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, water, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir to mix well.
Add the uncooked pasta to the baking dish, stirring to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and meatballs are distributed throughout.
Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are heated through.
Add the Cheese:
Remove the foil and stir the casserole to ensure even cooking.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake Until Cheese is Melted:
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:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
Extra Flavour: For added flavour, you can mix in some sautéed onions and bell peppers before baking.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add some spinach or mushrooms to the casserole for extra nutrition.
Spice Level: Adjust the garlic powder and Italian seasoning to taste, or add some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Enjoy your Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole!
