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Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

Sara Collins
If you need a quick and easy dinner, this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe is perfect. It is simple, filling and very tasty. You just mix everything and bake.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta penne or rotini
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 20 frozen meatballs
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
  

Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease your baking dish with oil or butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning easier after cooking.

Add Pasta to Dish

  • Place uncooked pasta into the baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Make sure the pasta is not clumped together for even cooking.

Add Sauce and Water

  • Pour marinara sauce and water over the pasta. Stir gently to combine. Ensure all pasta is covered with liquid so it cooks properly in the oven.

Add Meatballs

  • Place frozen meatballs on top of the pasta mixture. Spread them evenly across the dish. This helps them cook evenly and absorb flavor.

Add Seasonings

  • Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over everything. This adds flavor and makes the dish more delicious.

Cover and Bake

  • Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes. This step helps cook the pasta and soften the meatballs properly.

Add Cheese

  • Remove foil carefully. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly on top. This creates a cheesy and golden crust after baking.

Bake Again

  • Return the dish to the oven without foil. Bake for another 15 minutes. The cheese should melt and turn slightly golden.

Rest and Serve

  • Remove from oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade meal.

Notes

  • Use good quality marinara sauce for better flavor
  • Do not skip covering with foil at first
  • Stir halfway if pasta looks dry
  • Add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy
  • Use chicken or turkey meatballs for variation
  • Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms
Keyword Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe