Go Back
- 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef or turkey) - 2 cups dry penne pasta - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup water - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil for garnish This dish is simple and satisfying. You start with frozen meatballs. They save time and taste great. Then, add dry penne pasta. It cooks right in the sauce. Next, pour in marinara sauce and water. This keeps everything moist and flavorful. Cheese is the star here! I use mozzarella for that gooey pull. Parmesan adds a nice, salty bite. Italian seasoning gives it a great flavor. Don't forget salt and pepper to bring it all together. For a fresh touch, I like to add basil on top. It looks nice and adds a pop of flavor. You can find the full recipe with all details to make this tasty meal. - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - In a large bowl, mix together frozen meatballs, dry penne pasta, marinara sauce, and water until well combined. This step is key for soaking the pasta. - Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly to help it cook well. - Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep moisture in while it bakes. Bake for 30 minutes to get everything nice and warm. - After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Watch out for the steam! - Stir the casserole gently to mix it up. Then, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. - Place the dish back in the oven without the foil. Bake it for another 15-20 minutes. Look for the cheese to be melted and golden brown. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy the tasty flavors of your Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole! To get a perfect casserole, spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. This helps it cook well all around. Cover the dish with foil for the first bake. This keeps the meatballs and pasta moist and tasty. You can serve the casserole right from the dish. If you want, add extra marinara sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color. It makes the dish look nice too! This meal goes great with a side salad or warm garlic bread. Both add freshness and crunch. If you enjoy wine, try a light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc. These wines complement the flavors well. For the full recipe, check the cooking instructions above. {{image_4}} You can easily change this casserole to suit your taste. First, try different pasta types, like rotini or penne. Each pasta shape gives a new texture. If you want a creamy version, swap out marinara for alfredo sauce. This change adds a rich and smooth flavor. For the meat, you have options. You can use homemade meatballs if you want a fresh touch. Plant-based alternatives work great too. If you prefer, try different proteins like shredded chicken. Each protein adds a unique taste and makes the dish your own. Want some heat? Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. You can also include sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition. These veggies not only boost health but also add color and flavor. Feel free to mix and match to create a casserole that fits your family’s tastes. For the full recipe, check out the details above. After enjoying your casserole, let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. You should eat it within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality. Want to save some for later? You can freeze leftovers. They last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to wrap them well. You can reheat from frozen or thaw in the fridge first. Thawing makes it easier to bake. To enjoy your casserole again, you can reheat it. Use the oven or microwave. Make sure it gets hot all the way through. This will keep the flavors just right. Enjoy your meal! For the Full Recipe, check out the instructions above. Yes, you can use fresh meatballs. They will cook faster than frozen ones. Just check the meatballs' internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C). Adjust your baking time. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes into cooking. You can tell it's done when the cheese is melted and the edges bubble. This shows that the pasta cooked well and absorbed all the sauce. The top should be a nice golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Mix all the ingredients and store them in the fridge. You can also freeze it unbaked for later. Just remember to let it thaw before baking. This makes it easy to enjoy a great meal on busy days. Check out the Full Recipe for all the details. This blog post shares a simple and delicious meatball pasta bake recipe. You learned about key ingredients, like frozen meatballs and marinara sauce. I provided easy step-by-step instructions for baking and offered tips to enhance your dish. You can try different ingredients or serve it with your favorite sides. This dish is perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. Enjoy making it and creating your own tasty variations!

Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole

Looking for a quick and satisfying meal? Discover the Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole, a delicious dish that requires minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients. With frozen meatballs, pasta, and cheese baked to perfection, it's a family favorite! Explore this easy recipe now and make weeknight dinners a breeze. Click through for step-by-step instructions and tips to customize your casserole to perfection!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound frozen meatballs (choose beef or turkey based on preference)

2 cups dry penne pasta

2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite store-bought or homemade)

1 cup water

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that melty goodness)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a savory finish)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or more if you love herbs)

Salt and pepper to taste (adjust according to preference)

Fresh basil for garnish (optional but recommended for freshness)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it's fully heated for even cooking.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen meatballs, uncooked dry penne pasta, marinara sauce, and water. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well-coated and the pasta is moistened.

      Transfer the delicious mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer to ensure uniform cooking.

        Generously sprinkle the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper, over the top of the casserole mix.

          Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

            After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil—be cautious of the steam—then gently stir the casserole to distribute the ingredients. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top for a cheesy layer.

              Place the dish back into the oven uncovered, and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melting, bubbling, and turns a lovely golden brown.

                Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. For a fresh touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish or transfer portions to individual plates. Add a drizzle of extra marinara sauce on the side and a sprig of basil on top for a pop of color.