Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole – Page 2

Frozen meatballs: Pre-cooked frozen meatballs make this recipe super easy and quick. You can choose beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs based on your preference.
Pasta: Use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or ziti. Short pasta shapes work best for this dish as they hold the sauce and cheese well.
Marinara sauce: A jar of marinara sauce gives this casserole its rich and savory base. You can use homemade sauce or store-bought, depending on your preference.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: A generous amount of mozzarella cheese adds that irresistible gooey texture that will melt perfectly over the meatballs and pasta.
Grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra layer of flavor and a little bit of sharpness, grated Parmesan cheese is a must.
Seasonings: Fresh or dried herbs such as basil, oregano, and garlic powder can be added for extra flavor. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will give the dish a nice kick.

How to Make Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Choose a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish. Lightly grease the dish with cooking spray or a little bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Now, here comes the easy part! Start by dumping your frozen meatballs into the baking dish, followed by your uncooked pasta. Next, pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta, making sure everything is evenly coated.

Sprinkle in your herbs and spices to taste, and then top the mixture with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Then, serve up generous portions and enjoy your delicious, no-fuss meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This casserole is a true “dump and bake” recipe, meaning you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have time for complicated recipes.
Kid-Friendly: Meatballs, pasta, and cheese—this dish is sure to be a hit with kids and picky eaters. It’s a great way to get them excited about dinner!
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to make the casserole even more hearty and nutritious. You can also swap out the pasta for gluten-free noodles if you prefer.
Leftovers: This casserole makes fantastic leftovers. You can easily store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat it for a quick meal the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor. With minimal prep time and a short bake time, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re cooking for the family or entertaining guests, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to leave everyone satisfied.

So, next time you need a quick dinner solution, give this easy casserole a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Happy cooking!

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