Description
This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines savory meatballs, pasta, and zesty sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Frozen Meatballs
- 1 pound frozen meatballs
Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (your choice of shape)
Pasta Sauce
- 2 cups pasta sauce
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or your choice)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust.
- Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, and pasta sauce. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and mixed together.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure all the pasta and meatballs are submerged in sauce.
- Add Cheese
Sprinkle your choice of cheese generously over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously cheesy layer when baked.
- Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality meatballs and sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Since the pasta will cook in the oven, ensure it’s slightly undercooked in the initial mix.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add garlic powder or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Use Leftover Meatballs: If you have homemade meatballs, this recipe is a great way to use them up.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: meatball casserole, dump and bake, easy dinner, one dish meal