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Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole: The Ultimate Busy-Night Dinner Solution

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
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Looking for a quick, comforting meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor? This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender pasta, savory meatballs, and gooey melted cheese in one dish. Simply toss everything together, bake, and enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal with almost no cleanup. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (16 oz) package uncooked rotini pasta
  • 1 (24-25 oz) jar marinara sauce (choose your favorite brand!)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 (14 oz) package fully-cooked miniature (cocktail-size) meatballs (thawed if frozen)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt, to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh chopped herbs (basil, oregano, or parsley)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat ensures the pasta cooks evenly and the cheese gets perfectly melted.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix the uncooked rotini pasta, marinara sauce, water, and meatballs. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  3. Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook in the sauce and water mixture, creating a flavorful base.
  4. Check the Pasta: After 35 minutes, remove the foil and stir the casserole. Test the pasta to ensure it’s al dente (firm but cooked through). If needed, cover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  5. Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  1. Thaw Your Meatballs: If using frozen meatballs, make sure they’re completely thawed to avoid uneven cooking.
  2. Choose Quality Marinara: The sauce is the star of this dish, so pick a brand you love or use homemade marinara for the best flavor.
  3. Watch the Pasta: Cooking times may vary depending on your oven and baking dish. Check the pasta at the 35-minute mark to ensure it’s al dente.
  4. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to mushy pasta, so keep an eye on the texture.
  5. Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley adds a bright, flavorful finish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipes.gernarb.com/dump-and-bake-meatball-casserole-the-ultimate-busy-night-dinner-solution/