Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a simple, comforting one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Layered with frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of Italian herbs, it’s baked until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Minimal prep and maximum flavor make this casserole a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 1 lb frozen meatballs (about 20 meatballs)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Base and Sauce
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or ziti)
- 1/2 cup water
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, evenly spread the uncooked pasta on the bottom, then place the frozen meatballs on top of the pasta.
- Add Sauce and Water: Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta. Add 1/2 cup of water and gently stir to distribute the liquid and sauce through the casserole.
- Season the Dish: Sprinkle dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper evenly over the casserole to infuse it with classic Italian flavors.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, allowing the pasta to cook through and meatballs to heat evenly.
- Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to portion.
Notes
- You can use any short pasta shape such as rotini, penne, or ziti for best results.
- Frozen meatballs do not need to be thawed before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning blend to the seasoning step.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a lower-fat version, use part-skim mozzarella and lean turkey meatballs.
