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Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

5 from 26 reviews

This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is a simple, hearty, and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce in one dish, this casserole requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor with a cheesy, golden topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs and Sauce

  • 1 pound frozen meatballs
  • 1 can (24 ounces) pasta sauce
  • 1 cup water

Pasta

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large casserole dish, mix together the frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta until well combined.
  3. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, allowing the pasta to cook and the meatballs to heat through.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses on top of the casserole.
  5. Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can use any type of frozen meatballs – beef, turkey, or plant-based alternatives.
  • Feel free to substitute the pasta with gluten-free varieties if preferred.
  • If the casserole seems dry, add a little extra water or sauce before baking.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Adding some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the sauce can enhance the flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball casserole, dump and bake, easy dinner, pasta casserole, baked meatballs, comfort food