If you’re looking for a truly effortless weeknight dinner that bursts with comforting flavors, the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This dish brings together tender frozen meatballs, tender pasta, and rich marinara sauce all in one pan, making it not just easy but incredibly satisfying. The magic happens by simply dumping all the ingredients into a baking dish and letting your oven do the work, delivering a hearty, cheesy casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe is quick and straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this dish so irresistible.
- 1 pound frozen meatballs: Choose beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs for convenience and protein-packed flavor without extra prep.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta: Penne or rotini work beautifully to hold sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce to infuse the casserole with rich tomato goodness.
- 2 cups water or beef broth: Adds moisture and depth, helping the pasta cook perfectly in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that elevates the overall savory profile.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A simple way to add warm garlic flavor without chopping cloves.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to a golden, gooey topping that everyone loves.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A burst of color and fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter, ensuring nothing sticks and cleanup is simple. This step sets the foundation for a hassle-free baking experience.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Dish
Next, dump the frozen meatballs right into the prepared baking dish. Add the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and your choice of water or beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, optional red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently until it’s well mixed—this ensures every bite will have the perfect balance of flavors.
Step 3: Cover and Bake
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into your hot oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the pasta to soften and absorb the sauce while the meatballs start to heat through. You’re well on your way to dinner without even having to stir a pot on the stove!
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
When the timer goes off, carefully remove the foil and give the casserole a gentle stir to mix everything up. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top for that irresistible melty goodness. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, pull the casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes—this helps the cheese set slightly and makes serving easier. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor before digging in.
How to Serve Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a classic choice to add a pop of green and mild herbiness, you can also sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to amp up flavor just before serving. These easy garnishes give your casserole a professional touch effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp salads, like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. A fresh baguette or garlic bread is perfect to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual dinners, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a cozy family vibe. Hosting friends? Scoop portions into individual ramekins and garnish with fresh herbs for a charming presentation. You can also set out bowls of extra cheese, chili flakes, and fresh herbs, letting guests personalize their plates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for fantastic next-day lunches or dinners that are just as comforting.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe for up to three months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, the microwave works for a quicker fix but may slightly soften pasta texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh meatballs work great—just adjust baking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through. Frozen meatballs add convenience and cook perfectly in this recipe.
What type of pasta is best for this casserole?
Short, sturdy pasta like penne or rotini is ideal since they hold sauce well and cook evenly in the casserole. Avoid very thin pastas that might become mushy.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the meatballs for vegetarian or plant-based versions, or add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant for added depth and texture.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe without cheese?
Yes, you can omit the mozzarella if you prefer a lighter dish or have dietary restrictions. The casserole will still be flavorful and satisfying, though the cheese adds a nice creamy finish.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can create a quick mix from dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary if you have those on hand. It’s all about layering familiar herb flavors.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe a spin soon because it’s a total game-changer for busy nights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss. The flavors, the ease, and the warmth it brings to your table are simply unbeatable. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting and easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole featuring frozen meatballs, pasta, and marinara sauce baked together with mozzarella cheese for a cheesy, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, mix together the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water or beef broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes if using, and salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake for 30 minutes. This step cooks the pasta and meatballs together.
- Stir and Add Cheese: Remove the foil carefully, stir the casserole to blend, then evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Cool and Garnish: Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve: Serve the casserole hot and enjoy this easy, hearty meal that combines meatballs and pasta all in one dish.
Notes
- You can use beef, turkey, or chicken frozen meatballs based on preference.
- For added flavor, beef broth can be used instead of water.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the casserole.
- Ensure the baking dish is tightly covered to properly cook the pasta.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
