Looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort? This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or whenever you're craving a hearty, comforting dish. With frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and plenty of cheese, you simply dump all the ingredients into a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and dinner is served! Stick around for the full recipe, plus helpful tips and tricks to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.
What is a "Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole"?
A "Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole" is exactly what it sounds like: a dish where you simply dump all the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. There’s no need for pre-cooking or elaborate preparation, making this casserole a convenient choice for any home cook. The frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, and sauce cook together in one pan, creating a delicious and cheesy casserole that's ready to serve in less than an hour.
Ingredients List for Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
To make this easy and delicious dish, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken): You can use any type of frozen meatballs you prefer, whether they’re beef, turkey, or chicken. They will cook through perfectly in the casserole.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini): Uncooked pasta is key to this dish, as it will absorb the flavors of the sauce while it bakes, resulting in tender, flavorful pasta.
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce: Your favorite store-bought marinara works well, but you can also use homemade marinara if you prefer.
- 2 cups water or beef broth: The liquid helps to cook the pasta. Beef broth adds extra flavor, but water works just as well.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This gives the casserole a burst of classic Italian flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the casserole.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes. Feel free to adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty, gooey cheese topping is one of the highlights of this casserole.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is how versatile it is. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
- Meatballs: You can use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones if you prefer. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the casserole.
- Pasta: Any short pasta shape like ziti, elbow macaroni, or farfalle will work in place of penne or rotini. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used.
- Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice, but feel free to mix things up by using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar or even Parmesan for an extra cheesy kick.
- Sauce: If you want a creamier version, try using a mix of marinara and Alfredo sauce or add a bit of heavy cream to the marinara.
- Vegetables: Add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a more nutritious meal.
- Spices: You can adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more garlic, use fresh herbs, or include other spices like smoked paprika or dried basil.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C): This ensures your casserole cooks evenly.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Combine the ingredients: In the baking dish, add the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water (or beef broth), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Add the cheese: After 35 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, and return the casserole to the oven.
- Finish baking: Continue to bake the casserole, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta is tender.
- Garnish and serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving.
How to Cook Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
This section breaks down the process even further to ensure you get it just right:
- Layer Ingredients Properly: Spread the frozen meatballs out evenly in the baking dish so that every serving has a good balance of meatballs and pasta.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir the marinara, water or broth, and seasonings well with the pasta and meatballs. This helps ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Cover for Moisture: The foil helps trap steam, allowing the pasta to cook in the liquid without drying out. Don’t skip this step or the pasta may end up undercooked.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole after adding the cheese. You want it melted and bubbly, but not too browned. If necessary, you can turn on the broiler for the last couple of minutes to get a nice golden crust on the cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not using enough liquid: The pasta needs enough liquid to cook through, so make sure you’re using the full 2 cups of water or broth.
- Forgetting to cover with foil: Not covering the casserole while baking can result in dry pasta and uneven cooking. Always cover the dish for the first part of the cooking time.
- Overcooking the casserole: If you bake the casserole too long after adding the cheese, it can dry out or the cheese can become too crispy. Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving and Presentation Tips
This casserole is a hearty and filling meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a few thoughtful serving touches.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also a great accompaniment.
- Fresh Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or even a drizzle of olive oil before serving can add a fresh burst of flavor and visual appeal.
How to Serve Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
For a more refined presentation, try serving individual portions in ramekins or small baking dishes. This not only looks elegant but also makes it easier to portion out servings.
Presentation Ideas for Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
- Layered Look: For a polished look, ensure the meatballs are evenly spaced across the top of the casserole and visible through the melted cheese.
- Colorful Garnishes: Use a combination of chopped parsley and red pepper flakes for a colorful and appetizing presentation.
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe Tips
- Use high-quality meatballs: Since frozen meatballs are the star of this dish, opt for high-quality brands or make your own for the best flavor.
- Broil for extra crispness: If you like your cheese golden and crispy, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This gives the flavors time to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Yes, homemade meatballs work great! Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the casserole.
What other types of cheese can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or provolone for added flavor.
Conclusion
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a fantastic, no-fuss meal that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or preparing a dish for a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So grab your frozen meatballs, pasta, and marinara sauce, and enjoy this easy, cheesy, and incredibly delicious meal!
PrintDump And Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe
This dump and bake meatball casserole recipe is a perfect one-dish meal for busy weeknights. Combine frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and seasonings in one pan, then top with melted mozzarella. Simple and flavorful, this dish is versatile with beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large baking dish, add frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water or broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the pasta is cooked and the meatballs are heated through.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can customize the dish with different types of meatballs or pasta.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- For extra flavor, use beef broth instead of water.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Leave a Reply