Strapped for time but still crave a hearty, home-cooked meal? This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is here to save the day. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines tender meatballs, savory tomato sauce, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta—all with minimal effort.
It’s not just a recipe; it’s a lifesaver for busy parents and anyone who needs dinner on the table in a snap. Expect comfort food that’s as easy as “dump, bake, and enjoy.”
Why This Recipe is a Busy Parent’s Dream
Between work, school, and endless activities, finding time to cook can feel impossible. That’s why this dump-and-bake casserole is perfect. Here's what makes it so great:
- Super Simple: No need to boil pasta, cook meatballs separately, or dirty a pile of dishes.
- Quick Prep: All the ingredients go straight into one baking dish, saving you loads of time in the kitchen.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, saucy, meatball-filled goodness.
- Customizable: Toss in your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese to make it your own.
Now that you're tempted, let's jump into how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple but full of flavor. Every ingredient pulls its weight to create this weekday classic. Here's your grocery list:
- 1 lb frozen meatballs (fully cooked)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
- 3 cups marinara sauce (your favorite jarred or homemade sauce)
- 2 ½ cups water
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped fresh basil for garnish
Pro Tip: Want to sneak in some veggies? Add a handful of baby spinach or diced zucchini to the dish before baking.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives you just the right temperature to cook the pasta and heat the meatballs evenly.
2. Assemble the Ingredients
Grab a large, greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Add the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and Italian seasoning right into the pan. Season with a bit of salt and pepper, then stir everything together.
Tip: Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully coated in sauce to prevent any from sticking or remaining undercooked.
3. Add the Meatballs
Place the frozen meatballs directly on top of the pasta mixture. No need to defrost them! Trust the oven to do the work.
4. Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. This step locks in moisture to ensure the pasta cooks perfectly.
5. Add Cheese and Bake Again
Remove the foil, sprinkle on the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and return the casserole to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Even More
It’s not just the ease that makes this casserole a favorite—it’s also packed with features that make it truly magical:
- Stress-Free Cleanup: Only one dish to wash—enough said.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the dish the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake when needed.
- Freezer Friendly: Cooking for one or two? Freeze leftovers in individual portions for super-convenient future meals.
- Kid Approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy, saucy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Just make sure your meatballs are fully cooked before adding them to the dish.
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, both substitutions work well. However, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the type of pasta. Check the textures halfway through.
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
If you’re feeling adventurous, try cheddar, Gouda, or even a little goat cheese for a tangy twist.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal.
A Dinner Solution You’ll Always Turn To
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole isn’t just a meal—it’s a lifesaver on busy nights. It lets you whip up a flavorful, hearty dinner with almost zero effort, leaving more time for the things that matter most.
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