Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a simple, hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining pasta, marinara sauce, frozen precooked meatballs, and melted mozzarella cheese, this casserole is assembled quickly and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a comforting meal that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquids and Sauces
- 3 cups water
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
Pasta and Meat
- 16 ounces uncooked rotini or penne pasta
- 1 (14-ounce) package frozen precooked meatballs
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
- 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Combine ingredients in casserole dish: In a large baking dish, pour the 3 cups of water and jar of marinara sauce. Stir in the uncooked pasta and frozen precooked meatballs evenly across the dish. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using, for a subtle spicy kick.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, until the pasta is tender and meatballs are heated through.
- Finish with cheese: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh, bright touch.
Notes
- Use any short pasta shape like rotini, penne, or shells as preferred.
- Frozen precooked meatballs allow for quick assembly with no extra prep.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free pasta and check the marinara sauce label.
Keywords: baked meatball casserole, easy dinner, one dish meal, pasta casserole, weeknight dinner