Print

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 11 reviews

A simple and delicious Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole that combines frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, and uncooked pasta all in one dish. This easy casserole is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 pound frozen meatballs

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 can (24 ounces) pasta sauce
  • 1 cup water

Pasta Ingredients

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking of the casserole.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large casserole dish, mix together the frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta. Stir to combine so that the pasta is evenly covered with sauce.
  3. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 40 minutes, allowing the pasta to cook through and the meatballs to heat completely.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
  5. Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot for a comforting and easy meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute the frozen meatballs with homemade or fresh meatballs if preferred.
  • Use any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini for best results.
  • Covering the casserole tightly during the first baking ensures the pasta cooks properly in the sauce and water mixture.
  • For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the sauce before baking.
  • This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking straight from cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball casserole, dump and bake, easy casserole, pasta bake, freezer meatballs, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/dump-and-bake-meatball-casserole-recipe/