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–+ servings
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole for Family Comfort

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole simplifies dinner prep with frozen meatballs and pasta, perfect for busy families.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 cups uncooked penne pasta Choose short pasta for even cooking in the sauce.
  • 24 oz marinara sauce Opt for your favorite jarred or homemade variety.
  • 2 cups water Using beef broth elevates the flavor of the dish.
  • 24 oz frozen meatballs No thawing needed—homestyle or Italian-style work best.
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Adjust to taste for personal preference.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Consider fresh garlic for a more robust taste.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Fresh onions can be sautéed for extra flavor.
For the Cheese Topping
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully, creating a cheesy layer.
  • 0.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese Adds a delightful layer of flavor.
For Garnish
  • 0.25 cups fresh parsley Optional, for color and freshness.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In the prepared baking dish, combine uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, and water or beef broth. Add frozen meatballs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
  3. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes.
  4. After 35-40 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
  5. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
  6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This casserole is freezer-friendly; prepare ahead and store in the freezer for easy weeknight dinners.

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