Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hassle-free, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor? This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is your answer. With minimal prep and no need to pre-cook ingredients, this dish combines juicy meatballs, tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese into one easy casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or potlucks.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just layer the ingredients in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. Even novice cooks will find success with this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Preparation: No need to pre-cook pasta or meatballs—just mix, dump, and bake.
2. Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, this dish is comfort food at its finest.
3. Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite ingredients or dietary needs.
4. One-Dish Meal: Minimal cleanup since everything bakes together in one dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Pasta: Spread the uncooked pasta evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Add the Meatballs: Arrange the frozen meatballs on top of the pasta. They’ll cook directly in the sauce.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, water, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the Sauce: Evenly pour the sauce mixture over the pasta and meatballs. Ensure the pasta is completely submerged in the liquid to cook properly.

Step 3: Cover and Bake

1. Cover the Dish: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steam and cook the pasta.
2. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Remove the Foil: Carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
3. Bake Uncovered: Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the casserole for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Serve Hot: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole with:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
• Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or zucchini make great side dishes.

Customization Options

1. Protein Variations: Use chicken, sausage, or plant-based meatballs to change up the flavors.
2. Pasta Choices: Try whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options for dietary needs.
3. Extra Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the dish for added nutrition.
4. Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce for a bit of heat.
5. Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or a blend for unique flavors.

Tips for Success

1. Use Frozen Meatballs: They release juices as they cook, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
2. Check the Liquid: Ensure all pasta is submerged in liquid before baking to avoid undercooked spots.
3. Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving; this helps the sauce thicken slightly.
4. Double the Recipe: Feeding a crowd? Double the ingredients and use two baking dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes! If using fresh meatballs, cook them partially before assembling the casserole to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, the casserole can be frozen after baking. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or transfer to an airtight container before freezing.

Why Dump and Bake Recipes Are Perfect

Dump and bake recipes like this Meatball Casserole are lifesavers for busy households. With minimal prep, fewer dishes to wash, and ingredients you likely already have, they make dinner both easy and satisfying. This dish brings all the coziness of homemade cooking without the hassle—ideal for those nights when time is tight, but you still want to enjoy a hearty, delicious meal.

Conclusion

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a game-changer for anyone who loves comforting, flavorful meals with minimal effort. The combination of tender pasta, savory meatballs, and creamy, cheesy goodness is irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick family dinner or freezing portions for later, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your home.

Yield: 6

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

Print

Looking for a hassle-free, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor? This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is your answer. With minimal prep and no need to pre-cook ingredients, this dish combines juicy meatballs, tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese into one easy casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or potlucks.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen fully cooked meatballs
• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Assemble the Ingredients:

1. In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
2. Add the frozen meatballs and gently stir to coat them with the sauce mixture.

3. Cover and Bake:

1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are heated through.

4. Add the Cheese:

1. Remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.
2. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

• Customization: Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
• Cheese Options: Use a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone for a unique flavor twist.