Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Cheesy, hearty, and ready with almost no effort.
Introduction
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the definition of easy comfort food. With frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, and a few pantry staples, you can have a bubbling, cheesy casserole on the table in under an hour — no boiling pasta or complicated steps required. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
1 lb frozen meatballs
12 oz uncooked pasta (penne or ziti)
3 cups marinara sauce
2 cups water
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large baking dish, add meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and seasonings.
Stir well to coat pasta and meatballs evenly.
Step 3: Bake Covered
Cover tightly with foil.
Bake 35–40 minutes, until pasta is tender and meatballs are heated through.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Remove foil.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake Uncovered
Return to oven for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh basil.
Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45–55 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 6–8
Calories: ~350 per serving
Tips for Success
Use sturdy pasta like penne or ziti to hold up during baking.
Stir halfway through baking if pasta looks unevenly cooked.
Add extra marinara if you prefer a saucier casserole.
For a richer flavor, substitute beef broth for water.
Fun Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian meatballs.
Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini before baking.
Cheese Lovers: Add ricotta or provolone for extra creaminess.
Chicken Twist: Swap beef meatballs for chicken or turkey meatballs.
Serving Ideas
Pair with garlic breadsticks or focaccia.
Serve with a crisp Caesar salad.
Offer extra Parmesan at the table for cheese lovers.
Storytelling Element
Imagine pulling this casserole from the oven: pasta tender and coated in rich marinara, meatballs nestled throughout, and a blanket of melted mozzarella bubbling on top. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table, eager for a warm, cheesy scoop.
Conclusion
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is proof that delicious dinners don’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation.