Name: Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: Main Ingredients:; 1 lb frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken); 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well); 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups water or broth; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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The Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is a quick and easy dish that combines savory meatballs, pasta, and marinara sauce, all baked together for a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-dish wonder requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do the work for you!

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

1 lb frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups water or broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water (or broth), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Cover with Foil: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and help the pasta cook evenly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Remove Foil and Add Cheese: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Continue Baking: Return the casserole to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta is cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious casserole!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	50mg
Sodium	800mg
Total Carbohydrates	40g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	5g
Protein	20g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

Whole Wheat Pasta: Substitute regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for added fiber.
Lean Meatballs: Use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef for a lighter option.
Low-Sodium Sauce: Opt for low-sodium marinara sauce to reduce the overall sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is perfect for various occasions:

Weeknight Dinners: A quick and satisfying meal for busy nights.
Potlucks: Great for sharing at gatherings and parties.
Meal Prep: Easily make ahead for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Meatball Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Not Enough Liquid: Ensure there’s enough liquid in the casserole to cook the pasta properly; adjust the water/broth as needed.
Overcrowding the Dish: Make sure to spread the ingredients evenly in the baking dish for even cooking.
Skipping the Foil: Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking helps to steam the pasta, ensuring it cooks through.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole fresh:

Airtight Container: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Conclusion

In summary, the Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments or subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

A1: Yes, you can use fresh meatballs, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q2: What type of pasta works best?

A2: Any short pasta works well, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just make sure it’s uncooked when you add it to the casserole.

Q3: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

A3: Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition