Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

A Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole sounds like an easy and delicious meal! Here’s a simple recipe you can follow to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 oz) package of frozen meatballs (or homemade if preferred)

• 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or any other pasta)

• 1 cup water (or broth for extra flavor)

• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• 1 tsp dried basil (optional)

• 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Layer the Ingredients:

   • Spread the frozen meatballs evenly on the bottom of the baking dish.

   • Add the uncooked pasta over the meatballs.

   • Sprinkle the garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper (if using).

   • Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the pasta and meatballs.

   • Add 1 cup of water (or broth) over the top. This helps cook the pasta as it bakes.

4. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the meatballs are heated through. Check the pasta around 30 minutes to make sure it’s not getting too dry—add a little more water if needed.

5. Top with Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the casserole, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side of garlic bread or a salad!

This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to add other veggies, like bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to make it more hearty.