If you’re in search of a quick, delicious, and family-friendly dinner, this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the answer! With just a few ingredients and no need for pre-cooking, this casserole comes together effortlessly. In under an hour, you’ll have a cheesy, comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re pressed for time or simply looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious casserole:
- 1 (16-ounce) package Barilla uncooked rotini pasta: Rotini is perfect for holding onto the sauce and cheese, giving you a flavor-packed bite every time.
- 1 (25-ounce) jar marinara sauce: Choose your favorite brand of marinara sauce, or make it homemade if you have the time.
- 3 cups water: This will help the pasta cook perfectly in the oven.
- 1 (14-ounce) package fully-cooked miniature (cocktail-size) meatballs: Ensure they are thawed if using frozen. These meatballs add a savory, meaty element to the dish.
- 2 cups Kraft shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend) cheese: The melty, gooey cheese on top is what makes this casserole truly irresistible.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures that the pasta cooks evenly and the cheese gets perfectly bubbly and golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Take a large (9×13-inch) baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking and makes for easy cleanup later.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In your prepared baking dish, pour in the uncooked rotini pasta. Spread it out evenly to ensure every piece cooks properly. Next, add the jar of marinara sauce and the 3 cups of water. Stir the mixture well, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 4: Add the Meatballs
Place the fully-cooked meatballs on top of the pasta mixture. There’s no need to push them down too much—just let them rest on top. As the casserole bakes, the meatballs will sink slightly into the pasta, making for a hearty, satisfying bite.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend) cheese over the entire casserole. The cheese will melt beautifully and form a golden crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is crucial as it traps the steam, allowing the pasta to cook through without drying out. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
After 35 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. This allows the cheese to brown and the sauce to thicken. The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta is tender.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting time helps the dish set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Customize Your Meatballs: While this recipe calls for cocktail-size meatballs, you can easily swap them out for larger meatballs or even make your own from scratch if you prefer.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the pasta mixture before baking. These vegetables will cook along with the pasta, adding color and flavor to the dish.
- Switch Up the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan adds a nice depth of flavor, or try using provolone for a richer, creamier topping.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use spicy Italian sausage meatballs instead of the regular variety.
Serving Suggestions
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with some simple sides:
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make healthy and tasty side dishes.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze the casserole, do so before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or place the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, savory meatballs, and melted cheese in one easy-to-make dish. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try, and watch it become a new family favorite!
Feel free to adapt this content as needed for your blog!
