Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate no-fuss, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients—frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, uncooked pasta, and cheese—you can create a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying casserole with minimal effort. Simply dump everything into a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen!

Ingredients

• 1 pound frozen meatballs (any variety: beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based)
• 1 can (24 ounces) pasta sauce
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)

Cheese & Garnish:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation and Assembly

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . This temperature ensures even cooking without burning the top or overcooking the meatballs.
2. In a large baking dish (a 9×13-inch pan works perfectly), combine the frozen meatballs , entire can of pasta sauce , water , and uncooked pasta . The order doesn’t matter—this is truly a dump-and-bake recipe!
3. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with sauce and the meatballs are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Step 2: The Covered Baking Phase

1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is crucial for proper pasta cooking. The foil traps steam, creating the moist environment necessary for the raw pasta to cook through completely.
2. Bake the covered dish for exactly 30 minutes . Resist the temptation to peek—lifting the foil releases precious steam that the pasta needs for proper cooking.

Step 3: The Cheese Finish

1. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil (watch out for hot steam). Stir the casserole gently to redistribute ingredients and check that the pasta is tender. If it needs a few more minutes, re-cover and continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes .
2. Once the pasta reaches perfect tenderness, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. The combination of melted mozzarella and sharp Parmesan creates a rich and flavorful finish.

Step 4: The Golden Finish

1. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes , until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and developing those coveted golden-brown spots.
2. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving much easier.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve hot as a standalone dish or pair it with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors and cheesy goodness of this effortless casserole!

Tips for Success

• Customize Your Meatballs: Use your favorite variety of frozen meatballs—beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options like veggie or vegan meatballs.
• Pasta Sauce Variations: Swap regular pasta sauce for marinara, Alfredo, or spicy arrabbiata for a different flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the epitome of convenience and flavor. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, juicy meatballs, and gooey cheese topping, it’s a comforting dish that requires almost no prep work. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. Dive into this cheesy, meaty masterpiece and savor every bite of its effortless deliciousness!