How to Make an Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole: A Delicious No-Fuss Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting meal that’s quick and effortless to prepare, look no further than this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole. This recipe brings together hearty meatballs, pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese in a single dish. The best part? There’s minimal prep—just layer the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Meatball Casserole:
Super Easy: No need to brown the meatballs or cook the pasta beforehand. Just dump everything in the dish and bake.
Deliciously Hearty: A satisfying mix of meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.
One-Pan Cleanup: Everything cooks in one dish, saving you time and effort.
Customizable: Add veggies, use different cheeses, or swap regular pasta for a gluten-free version to suit your preferences.
Ingredients:
1 pound frozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
2 ½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking. - Assemble the Casserole:
In a large baking dish (9×13 works well), place the frozen meatballs in an even layer. No need to thaw them. - Add the Pasta:
Sprinkle the uncooked pasta over the meatballs. The pasta will cook as it bakes, soaking up the sauce’s delicious flavors. - Pour the Sauce:
Evenly pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to distribute the sauce and seasonings if needed. - Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top. The cheese will melt and create a golden crust during baking. - Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes. Remove the foil after 30 minutes to let the cheese bubble and brown. Ensure the meatballs are heated through, and the pasta is tender. - Garnish and Serve:
Once done, let the casserole sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color, then serve hot.
Tips for the Best Meatball Casserole:
Choose Quality Meatballs: Use well-seasoned store-bought meatballs or make your own for better flavor.
Pasta Options: Short pasta like penne or ziti works best, but you can experiment. Ensure the pasta can hold its shape during baking.
Healthier Tweaks: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options, use turkey or chicken meatballs, and opt for low-fat cheese. Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Cheese Variety: Try mixing in Parmesan, provolone, or ricotta for added creaminess and flavor.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner:
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole combines the best parts of a classic meatball sub and spaghetti in an easy casserole form. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. With minimal cleanup and big flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit!
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Enjoy.