Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones.

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is exactly that—a no-fuss, easy-to-make dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

With just a few ingredients and no pre-cooking required, this recipe allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal.

Tender meatballs, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta all come together in a single dish.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this casserole will hit the spot.

Let’s dive into this effortless and satisfying recipe!

Why We Love This Recipe

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole has so many things going for it.

First, it’s a true “dump-and-go” recipe.

You don’t need to boil the pasta or cook the meatballs beforehand.

Simply layer the ingredients in a dish, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen.

The flavors are classic and comforting.

Savory meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese create a combination that’s hard to resist.

It’s also incredibly versatile.

You can customize it with different cheeses, sauces, or even add vegetables for an extra nutritional boost.

Best of all, it’s a one-pan dish, which means minimal cleanup—a huge win for busy days.

This casserole is family-friendly and sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serves: 6-8

For the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

• 1 pound frozen fully cooked meatballs (thawed if desired)
• 12 ounces uncooked rotini pasta (or penne, ziti, etc.)
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar)
• 3 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Spread the uncooked pasta evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Pour the marinara sauce over the pasta, making sure it coats the pasta evenly.

Add the water or chicken broth to the dish.

Gently stir the pasta, sauce, and liquid together to combine.

Step 3: Add the Meatballs

Arrange the frozen (or thawed) meatballs on top of the pasta mixture.

There’s no need to press them down—they’ll sink slightly as the dish cooks.

Step 4: Season and Cover

Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the top for added flavor.

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and ensure the pasta cooks evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

This will allow the pasta to cook and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and carefully take off the foil.

Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness!

Tips for the Perfect Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Use High-Quality Ingredients

A good marinara sauce and flavorful meatballs are key to making this dish shine.

Choose ingredients you love for the best results.

Don’t Overcrowd

Make sure the meatballs are evenly spaced across the dish so they cook uniformly.

Stir the Pasta

Before adding the meatballs, give the pasta, sauce, and liquid a quick stir to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Keep It Covered

Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps the pasta cook evenly by trapping steam.

Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to scoop.

Variations to Try

Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, diced zucchini, or bell peppers to the dish for a veggie-packed version.

Cheesy Upgrade: Use a combination of cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Gruyère for extra depth of flavor.

Spicy Kick: Use spicy meatballs or add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a bit of heat.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the meatballs and marinara sauce are also gluten-free.

Different Meatballs: Try turkey, chicken, or plant-based meatballs to suit your dietary preferences.

Creamy Twist: Add a dollop of ricotta or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamy version.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in the Fridge

Transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freeze for Longer Storage

Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat for Best Results

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

Alternatively, reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from overbrowning.

Final Thoughts

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate solution for those nights when you need a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal.

With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a go-to recipe that delivers every time.

The tender pasta, savory meatballs, and gooey melted cheese make this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is a winner.

Give it a try and watch it become a regular part of your dinner rotation!