Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

The aroma of a bubbly, cheesy dump and bake meatball casserole wafts through the air, instantly transporting you to comfort food heaven. Imagine tender meatballs nestled in a rich tomato sauce, smothered with gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. hearty baked potato dish This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate.

I remember the first time I made this delightful concoction for a family gathering. My cousin took one bite and declared it was “life-changing.” That dramatic flair might have been a bit much, but trust me—this casserole can turn any ordinary night into a special occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish is sure to impress.

My kids still rave about that first batch of meatball casserole, asking me when I’ll whip it up again!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Frozen Meatballs: Opt for high-quality frozen meatballs or homemade ones if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Pasta Sauce: Choose your favorite marinara or spaghetti sauce for added flavor. For more inspiration, check out this one-pot spaghetti recipe recipe.
• Uncooked Pasta: Penne or rotini works wonderfully; use whole grain for a healthier option.
• Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar gives that perfect melty goodness.
• Italian Seasoning: A sprinkle will enhance the flavor profile with aromatic herbs like oregano and basil. air fryer calzones with chicken.
• Fresh Parsley: Use chopped parsley as a bright garnish for color and freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this chicken tenders recipe recipe.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure easy cleanup.

Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, and pasta sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated in that delicious sauce.

Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the mixture before folding in half of the shredded cheese. This step adds layers of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Bake It Up!: Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. The anticipation will be palpable as the aromas fill your kitchen.

Add More Cheese!: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve!: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm straight from the dish; watch people swoon over this comforting delight!

This dump and bake meatball casserole is not only easy to prepare but also packs tons of flavor in every bite! Your family will be begging you to make it again soon! sweet cornbread poppers.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Layer the ingredients in a baking dish, then cover with cheese before baking until bubbly and golden. This ensures the meatballs are cooked through while keeping everything moist and flavorful.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color, making this casserole uniquely yours. savory beef taco recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven; just add a splash of water to keep it moist while warming.

The first time I made this dump and bake Meatball Casserole, my kids couldn’t stop raving about it—now it’s their favorite dish!

FAQ

Can I use frozen meatballs in this dump and bake Meatball Casserole?

Absolutely! Just increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

What kind of cheese works best for topping?

Mozzarella cheese is fantastic for that stretchy, gooey texture everyone loves.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it beforehand and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole. Tender frozen meatballs swim in a rich marinara sauce, combined with uncooked pasta and topped with gooey cheese. This effortless recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, delivering a deliciously satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb frozen meatballs
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, and marinara sauce, stirring until well-coated.
3. Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the mixture and fold in half of the shredded cheese.
4. Pour everything into the prepared baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove foil, top with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 830mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg