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Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 531 reviews

This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is a quick and easy comfort food meal perfect for busy weeknights. Simply combine frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta in a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh touch.

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 Garnish

  • 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 large baking dish, pour the can of pasta sauce, add 1 cup of water, and stir to combine. Add the frozen meatballs and uncooked pasta to the sauce mixture, ensuring the pasta is submerged as much as possible.
  3. Mix and Spread: Stir gently to evenly distribute the meatballs and pasta within the sauce. Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
  4. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 to 50 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbly. The cheese should be melted and slightly golden.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Notes

  • For best results, use a deep baking dish to prevent sauce from boiling over.
  • You can customize this casserole with your favorite pasta shapes or cheese varieties.
  • If the pasta absorbs most of the liquid before baking, you may add a bit more water to keep it moist.
  • This casserole makes great leftovers and reheats well.

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