When it comes to quick, hearty, and family-friendly dinners, nothing beats a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole. This delicious recipe requires no pre-cooking, no extra pots or pans, and minimal effort—just dump everything into a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. The result? A cheesy, saucy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or cozy weekend dinners.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and convenience. You don’t have to boil pasta or brown meat beforehand, making it an absolute game-changer for those who need a quick dinner solution. The combination of tender pasta, savory meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite herbs, swap the cheese, or include some veggies to make it your own!
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this one-pan meal delivers on flavor and ease. It’s comfort food at its finest with minimal cleanup, making it an ideal go-to recipe for any home cook.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious and foolproof dinner option, this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is exactly what you need. Keep reading to discover the easy step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to make this meal absolutely perfect every time!
Why You’ll Love This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
- No Pre-Cooking Required – Just dump everything into the baking dish and let the oven do the work.
- One-Dish Wonder – Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors of pasta, marinara, cheese, and meatballs.
- Customizable – Swap out ingredients to make it your own, from different sauces to varied protein options.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers that taste just as good reheated.
Ingredients for Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
To make this simple and delicious casserole, you’ll need:
- 16 ounces uncooked rotini pasta – The perfect pasta shape for soaking up all the sauce.
- 1 jar (24-25 ounces) marinara sauce – Choose your favorite store-bought variety or make your own.
- 3 cups water – Helps the pasta cook evenly in the oven.
- 14 ounces fully-cooked miniature (cocktail-size) meatballs – If using frozen, make sure they are completely thawed.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese – Melts beautifully for a cheesy, gooey topping.
- Optional garnishes: Parmesan cheese, fresh chopped herbs (basil, oregano, parsley) – Adds a fresh and flavorful touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, stir together the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and meatballs. Add a pinch of salt to taste and mix well to evenly distribute all the ingredients.
Step 3: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 35 minutes to allow the pasta to cook in the sauce and water.
Step 4: Stir and Check the Pasta
Remove the casserole from the oven and stir well. Check the pasta for doneness—it should be al dente, meaning firm but nearly cooked through. If it still feels too hard, cover the dish and return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is al dente, uncover the dish and sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.
Step 6: Bake Until Cheese is Melted
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
- Use Good-Quality Marinara Sauce – Since the sauce is a key ingredient, choose a flavorful, high-quality brand.
- Customize Your Protein – Swap out meatballs for cooked Italian sausage, ground turkey, or plant-based meatballs.
- Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a little kick.
- Experiment with Cheese – Try a blend of provolone, cheddar, or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
- Veggie Boost – Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms before baking for added nutrition.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or farfalle work well, but avoid very small pasta shapes that might overcook.
Do I Have to Use Meatballs?
No, you can use pre-cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken instead.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?
Yes! The cheesy, meaty flavors are a hit with kids. You can leave out any spicy elements if needed.
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs?
Yes, but make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the dish, as raw meatballs won’t cook properly in the allotted time.
Final Thoughts
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate hassle-free dinner, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. With simple ingredients, no pre-cooking, and easy cleanup, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights. Try it today and enjoy a warm, cheesy, and comforting meal that the whole family will love!
Have you tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments below and don’t forget to share this easy dinner idea with friends and family!
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Dump & Bake Meatball Casserole – The Easiest Comfort Food!
- Total Time: 55 min
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
No need to boil the pasta—just dump, bake, and enjoy! This Dump & Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate no-fuss dinner. Tender pasta, juicy meatballs, and gooey melted cheese come together in one dish for a meal the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights! ❤️
Ingredients
✔️ 1 (16 oz) package uncooked rotini pasta
✔️ 1 (24-25 oz) jar marinara sauce
✔️ 3 cups water
✔️ 1 (14 oz) package fully-cooked miniature meatballs (thawed if frozen)
✔️ 2 cups shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
✔️ Optional Garnish: Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, oregano, or parsley
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
2️⃣ In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and meatballs. Season with salt and stir.
3️⃣ Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
4️⃣ Remove from oven, uncover, and stir. Check that the pasta is al dente (firm but nearly cooked). If still hard, cover and bake a little longer.
5️⃣ Once the pasta is ready, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
6️⃣ Bake uncovered for 5-10 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7️⃣ Garnish with Parmesan, fresh herbs, or red pepper flakes (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
✨ Add garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
✨ Swap 1 cup of water for red wine or beef broth for a richer taste.
✨ Like it spicy? Add red pepper flakes!
Would you try this for an easy dinner? Let me know! ❤️
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 461.4 kcal per serving
- Sugar: 8.3g
- Sodium: 1106.6mg
- Fat: 21.3g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3.2g
- Protein: 26g