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
Scale
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.
