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Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

This easy casserole is a perfect dump-and-bake meal with delicious meatballs, pasta, and cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: American
Calories: 164
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 340 g uncooked penne pasta Use any type of pasta you prefer
  • 680 g marinara sauce Choose your favorite brand
  • 710 ml water Or substitute with beef broth for more flavor
  • 454 g frozen meatballs Use pre-cooked meatballs for convenience
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adjust to taste
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder Optional, for extra flavor
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder Optional, for extra flavor
  • 170 g shredded mozzarella cheese Use more or less depending on preference
  • 25 g grated Parmesan cheese Adds a rich flavor
  • Fresh parsley Optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In the baking dish, stir together uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water (or broth), frozen meatballs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything is well mixed and pasta is submerged.
  3. Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
  4. Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
  5. Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  6. Let casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

This casserole is a versatile dish. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.