Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Here’s a super easy and comforting Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole recipe — no need to boil pasta or brown meatballs first. Everything cooks together in one dish!

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🍝 DUMP AND BAKE MEATBALL CASSEROLE

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 oz) box of uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti work great)

• 1 (24–26 oz) jar of marinara or spaghetti sauce

• 3 cups water (or beef broth for more flavor)

• 1 (14–16 oz) bag of frozen meatballs (fully cooked)

• 1–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine:

   • Uncooked pasta

   • Jar of marinara sauce

   • 3 cups water or broth

   • Frozen meatballs

   • Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper if using
     👉 Stir everything gently to combine.

3. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.

4. Remove from oven, stir the casserole, and check pasta doneness.

5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.

6. Return to oven uncovered, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden, cheesy top.

8. Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or basil.

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🔁 Variations:

• Use mini meatballs or turkey/chicken meatballs.

• Add frozen spinach or chopped bell peppers for veggies.

• Mix in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Let me know if you’d like a version using homemade meatballs or gluten-free pasta!