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