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Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole will cook evenly and the cheese will melt perfectly.
2. Assemble the Casserole:
In a large baking dish (9×13 works well), begin by placing your frozen meatballs in an even layer at the bottom. There’s no need to thaw them—just place them straight from the freezer.
3. Add the Pasta:
Next, sprinkle the uncooked pasta over the meatballs. The pasta will cook in the sauce as it bakes, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the meatballs and marinara.
4. Pour the Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta, ensuring everything is covered evenly. Add a pinch of garlic powder and Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture gently if needed to distribute the sauce and seasonings.
5. Top with Cheese:
Now for the best part—cheese! Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, golden crust as it bakes.
6. Bake:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil so the cheese can get golden and bubbly. The meatballs should be heated through, and the pasta will be perfectly tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole:
- Use Quality Meatballs: If you’re using store-bought meatballs, try to find ones with minimal fillers and a good balance of seasoning. Homemade meatballs also work great if you prefer to make them from scratch.
- Pasta Choices: Feel free to switch up the type of pasta. Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or ziti work best, but you can experiment with others. Just be sure to choose a pasta that will hold up well during baking.
- Make it Healthier: If you’re looking to make this casserole a bit lighter, you can use whole wheat pasta, lean turkey or chicken meatballs, and reduced-fat cheese. You could also add in some sautéed veggies, like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: While mozzarella and cheddar are classic, feel free to add in other cheeses like Parmesan, provolone, or even a bit of ricotta for extra creaminess.
- Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free version, swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Check the package for the right cooking time, as it may vary slightly from traditional pasta.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner:
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of a classic meatball sub or spaghetti and meatballs in an easy-to-make casserole form. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Plus, with its minimal prep time and easy cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.
So, whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual dinner party, or just craving a comforting dish, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the effortless goodness!
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