Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner—no boiling pasta, no browning meat, and no stress. You literally dump all the ingredients into one dish and let the oven do the work. It’s a cozy, cheesy comfort meal loaded with juicy meatballs, tender pasta, rich marinara, and melty mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

  • uncooked penne pasta
    1 box
  • marinara sauce
    1 jar
  • water
    3 c
  • meatballs
    1 bag
  • Italian seasoning
    1 tsp
  • garlic powder
    ½ tsp
  • onion powder
    ½ tsp
  • mozzarella cheese
    1 ½ c
  • Parmesan cheese
    ¼ c
  • Fresh parsley

    for garnish

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  2. 2

    Combine ingredients: In the baking dish, stir together uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water (or broth), frozen meatballs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything is well mixed and pasta is submerged.

  3. 3

    Cover and bake: Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until pasta is tender.

  4. 4

    Add cheese: Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.

  5. 5

    Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

  6. 6

    Rest and serve: Let casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

65 min164 cal

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About this Recipe

Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole: Your Ultimate Weeknight Hero

Looking for an easy weeknight dinner that practically cooks itself? Our Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is here to save the day! This incredible recipe redefines convenience, allowing you to create a comforting, hearty meal with minimal effort. Imagine: no boiling pasta, no browning meat, and hardly any cleanup. You simply combine all the ingredients in a baking dish, and your oven does the rest!

This isn't just any casserole; it's a cozy, cheesy triumph loaded with juicy frozen meatballs, perfectly tender penne pasta, and a rich, savory marinara sauce, all topped with a blanket of melty mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes everyone gather around the table, perfect for busy families or anyone craving deliciousness without the fuss.

Why You'll Love This No-Boil Pasta Bake

What makes this one-dish meatball bake truly special is its incredible simplicity. By using uncooked pasta and frozen meatballs, we eliminate several steps, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings. The pasta cooks directly in the flavorful marinara and broth, absorbing all those delicious juices and resulting in a wonderfully creamy texture. The Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder infuse every bite with authentic, comforting flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Meatball Casserole

  • Flavor Boost: While water works, using beef broth instead will add an extra layer of savory depth to your casserole. Don't skip it if you want richer flavor!
  • Veggie Power: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Stir in a handful of chopped spinach, diced bell peppers, or shredded zucchini with the other ingredients before baking.
  • Cheese Please: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of mozzarella, provolone, and some sharp cheddar can add a delightful twist. A sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano at the end also enhances the Italian flair.

Serve this cheesy meatball casserole with a simple side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions