If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dinner option, a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the way to go! This one-pan dish is simple, flavorful, and requires minimal prep. Here’s a quick guide with easy steps:
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (about 24 oz) frozen meatballs (you can use beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini works great)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in a Casserole Dish
In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, dump the following ingredients:
- Frozen meatballs
- Cooked pasta (if you don’t want to cook pasta separately, you can add it uncooked with a bit of extra sauce and water)
- Marinara sauce
- Italian seasoning (optional for extra flavor)
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
Stir the ingredients together until the meatballs and pasta are evenly coated with sauce. You can also sprinkle a little salt and pepper for extra seasoning.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Make sure the cheese is spread evenly on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. This will heat everything through and melt the cheese. For a bubbly, golden top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the perfect meal for busy days when you want something comforting with minimal effort. You can even make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
Would you like more simple dinner ideas like this?
