Delicious dump-and-bake meatball casserole topped with cheese and herbs.

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is an easy and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that your whole family will love. It combines flavorful meatballs, pasta, and cheese, all baked together to perfection. Plus, it takes very little prep time, making it an ideal weeknight dinner!

How to Make Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

Ingredients

  • 1 pound frozen meatballs
  • 1 can (24 ounces) pasta sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. In a casserole dish, combine frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta.
  3. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 40 minutes.
  4. Uncover the dish, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and then bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  5. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

This casserole is best served hot straight from the oven. You can pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. It also makes for a great lunch the next day!

How to Store Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool down to room temperature. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating!

Tips to Make Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

  • Feel free to add extra vegetables to the casserole, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition.
  • Use different types of cheese, like cheddar or a blend, to change the flavor.
  • Make sure that the pasta is covered in sauce to ensure it cooks evenly.

Variation

You can swap the meatballs for cooked sausage or grilled chicken for a different taste. Also, change the pasta shape depending on your preference!

FAQs

  1. Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
    Yes, you can use homemade meatballs. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the casserole.

  2. What type of pasta works best?
    Any pasta that cooks well in the oven will work, but short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni are ideal.

  3. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
    Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. Adjust the cooking time as needed if it’s chilled.