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Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 177 reviews

A simple and hearty Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole that combines frozen meatballs, pasta, and sauce baked together for an effortless and comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole requires minimal prep and delivers cheesy, bubbly goodness right out of the oven.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound frozen meatballs
  • 1 can (24 ounces) pasta sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a casserole dish, mix together the frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta until well combined.
  3. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, allowing the pasta to cook through and the flavors to meld.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  5. Serve: If desired, garnish the finished casserole with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • Using frozen meatballs saves prep time and works well in this no-boil pasta dish.
  • Make sure the casserole dish is tightly covered during the initial baking to properly cook the pasta in the sauce and water.
  • You can substitute pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni with other sturdy short pasta.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, though the pasta may absorb more sauce over time.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the sauce before baking.

Keywords: meatball casserole, dump and bake, easy casserole, baked pasta, one dish meal, frozen meatballs recipe, cheesy meatball bake

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