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Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 111 reviews

This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is an easy, comforting one-dish meal that combines frozen meatballs, pasta, and marinara sauce baked together to perfection. With minimal prep and a delicious cheesy topping, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

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
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it is ready for baking the casserole evenly.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a casserole dish, mix together the frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta so that everything is evenly distributed.
  3. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook through and the meatballs to heat up.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove the foil, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the casserole.
  5. Bake Uncovered: Return the dish to the oven uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then serve hot for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute the frozen meatballs with homemade or cooked meatballs if preferred.
  • Using penne or rigatoni is recommended as their shapes hold the sauce well, but other pasta types can be used.
  • Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during initial baking to properly cook the pasta.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.

Keywords: meatball casserole, dump and bake, easy dinner, baked pasta, Italian comfort food

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