Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a simple, comforting one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, uncooked pasta, and a blend of Italian herbs, this casserole bakes to perfection with a cheesy, bubbly topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb frozen meatballs (about 20 meatballs)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Pasta and Liquids
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or ziti)
- 1/2 cup water
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a large 9×13 inch baking dish, evenly spread the uncooked pasta on the bottom. Arrange the frozen meatballs evenly over the pasta.
- Add Sauce and Water: Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta. Add 1/2 cup of water to the sauce to ensure the pasta cooks well, then gently stir to combine the ingredients.
- Season: Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper evenly over the casserole to enhance the flavor.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are thoroughly heated.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the casserole. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set slightly and makes serving easier.
Notes
- You can use any short pasta like rotini, penne, or ziti depending on your preference.
- Using frozen meatballs saves prep time but fresh or homemade meatballs can be substituted if desired.
- Covering with foil during the first phase helps the pasta cook through using steam.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
