In the world of comfort foods, few dishes offer the effortless charm and satisfying warmth of a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole. This recipe is a shining example of how just a handful of basic ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both incredibly easy to prepare and deeply gratifying for everyone at the table. Perfect for busy evenings, this casserole is your go-to for a quick, hassle-free dinner.
What makes this casserole such a crowd-pleaser is its sheer convenience. On those whirlwind weeknights, when every minute counts, this dish shines. With only about five minutes of prep, you can have it ready to pop into the oven. Its universal appeal ensures it’s a hit with both kids and adults, and its flexible nature means you can adjust the recipe to fit whatever ingredients you have on hand or any dietary needs.
Ingredients and Simple Preparation
The Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole excels in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A package of short pasta, like rotini or penne
- A jar of savory pasta or marinara sauce, plus some water
- Frozen meatballs (choose from beef, turkey, or plant-based)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese for a gooey, cheesy topping
- Optional: crushed red pepper for a kick of spice and fresh herbs for garnish
The preparation is a breeze. Start by preheating your oven to ensure even cooking. In a large baking dish, mix together the uncooked pasta, sauce, water, and meatballs, stirring to combine the flavors. Cover with foil and bake until the pasta has absorbed the sauce and the meatballs are heated through. Remove the foil, stir, sprinkle with cheese, and return to the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Customizing Your Casserole
One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes or sauces to keep things fresh. For a lighter touch, try turkey meatballs, or go vegetarian with plant-based alternatives. Adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers can enhance the nutrition and add vibrant color.
When it comes to serving, this casserole stands well on its own, but pairing it with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread makes for a complete meal. And if you’re preparing it in advance, it reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or those nights when cooking feels like a chore.
Print
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Here’s a quick and easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole that offers both convenience and flavor. It’s an ideal solution for hectic evenings when you crave a homemade meal without the hassle of complicated cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounces) package uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 (24 or 25 ounces) jar marinara sauce (Pick your favorite for the best flavor!)
- 3 cups water
- 1 (14-ounce) package fully-cooked miniature (cocktail-size) meatballs (Thaw completely if frozen)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional garnishes:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F – this high temperature ensures everything cooks to perfection.
- In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, combine the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and meatballs. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor and mix everything well.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook evenly in the sauce and water.
- After 35 minutes, remove the foil, stir the casserole, and check the pasta for doneness. It should be al dente. If necessary, cover it again and return to the oven for a bit longer.
- Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top. Bake, uncovered, for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta is tender.
- Enjoy your simple, delicious meal!
Notes
Tips:
- If your meatballs are frozen, make sure to thaw them beforehand to avoid any icy surprises in your casserole.
- The marinara sauce is the star of the show, so choose a high-quality brand that you love for the best taste.
- Cooking times can vary based on your oven and the type of dish you use (metal, glass, or ceramic), so keep an eye on the pasta and adjust as needed.
- Avoid overbaking to ensure the pasta remains tender and not mushy.
- For a delightful finishing touch, top with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
