Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

Looking for a quick, no-fuss dinner that’s packed with flavor? This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is your answer! With minimal prep and just one dish, you’ll have a hearty, cheesy, family-friendly meal ready in 30 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

✅ 9×13-inch baking dish – The perfect size for even cooking.
✅ Mixing spoon – For layering ingredients.
✅ Measuring cups/spoons – To ensure perfect ratios.
✅ Aluminum foil (optional) – Helps melt cheese evenly.

Ingredients for Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

(Serves 6-8)

• 1 lb frozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta (or rotini, ziti)
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups water or beef broth (for extra flavor)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole (Step-by-Step) ?

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

• Spread uncooked pasta evenly in the dish.
• Add frozen meatballs on top (no thawing needed!).
• Pour marinara sauce and water/broth over everything.
• Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt & pepper.

Step 3: Cover & Bake

• Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove foil, stir gently, and check if pasta is tender.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

• Top with mozzarella & Parmesan.
• Bake uncovered for 5-10 mins until cheese melts & bubbles.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

• Let sit 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Variations

🔹 Cheesier Version – Add ricotta or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
🔹 Spicy Kick – Mix in red pepper flakes or use hot Italian meatballs.
🔹 Veggie-Packed – Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
🔹 Different Sauces – Try Alfredo, vodka sauce, or BBQ for a twist.
🔹 Gluten-Free – Use GF pasta and check meatball ingredients.

Cooking Notes

✔ No Boiling Pasta Needed! The liquid cooks the pasta perfectly.
✔ Meatball Options – Homemade, turkey, or plant-based meatballs work.
✔ Avoid Overbaking – Pasta should be al dente, not mushy.
✔ Make Ahead – Assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
✔ Freezing Tip – Freeze before baking, then thaw & cook as directed.

Serving Suggestions

🍽 With Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up sauce!
🥗 Side Salad – A fresh Caesar or garden salad balances richness.
🍷 Wine Pairing – A light Chianti or Pinot Noir complements the flavors.
🍝 Extra Sauce – Serve with warm marinara for dipping.

Helpful Tips

🔸 Broil for Crispy Cheese – 2-3 mins at the end for a golden top.
🔸 Even Cooking – Stir once halfway if needed.
🔸 Pasta Swap – Smaller pasta (like elbows) cooks faster.
🔸 Thicker Sauce? Use 1 cup water instead of 1.5 cups.
🔸 Fresh Herbs – Basil, oregano, or thyme add freshness.

Tips for the Best Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

🌟 Quality Marinara – A good sauce makes a difference!
🌟 Don’t Skip Seasonings – Garlic & onion powder enhance flavor.
🌟 Let It Rest – Allows sauce to thicken before serving.
🌟 Check Pasta Doneness – Adjust baking time if needed.

Similar recipes you may also like:

• Roasted Garlic Parmesan Carrots
• Best Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe
• Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
• Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
• Easy French Onion Beef and Noodles Recipe
• Easy Sheet Pan Quesadillas Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh meatballs?
Yes! Just bake 10 mins longer to ensure they cook through.

2. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

3. How to store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for 2 months.

Conclusion

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate lazy-day dinner no pre-cooking, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping, this one-pan wonder never disappoints. Try it tonight!

Print