Description

Dump & Bake Meatball Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring tender meatballs, pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheeses. With minimal prep and a baking method that brings out delicious, cozy flavors, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or any time you crave a hearty and fuss-free family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

1 lb frozen or fresh meatballs

Pasta

3 cups elbow macaroni or rotini pasta

Sauces & Seasonings

3 cups tomato marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp minced garlic or ½ tsp garlic powder

Cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Preheat and prep: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Cook the pasta: Boil your chosen pasta in salted water just until al dente, then drain and set aside—this ensures it finishes cooking perfectly in the bake without becoming mushy.
Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, meatballs, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic. Stir until everything is well incorporated and evenly coated.
Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top for a bubbly cheesy crust.
Bake until bubbly: Bake uncovered for approximately 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and the casserole is heated through.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if you like, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Use thawed meatballs to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole without cold spots.
Don’t overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked pasta absorbs more sauce during baking, preventing sogginess.
Layer cheese strategically; reserve some for the top to create an irresistible golden crust.
If the cheese browns too fast, loosely cover the casserole with foil to finish baking without burning.
Let it rest a few minutes before serving to help the casserole set for cleaner slices.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of casserole)
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: dump and bake meatball casserole, easy meatball casserole, family dinner, quick casserole, comfort food