By Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a comfort-food classic made simpler for home cooks. With everyday ingredients and reliable technique, it delivers big flavor with little effort.
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole captures the essence of meals while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
1 bag (24 oz) frozen meatballs
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
2 cups water
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or ziti)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
PREPARATION STEPS
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large baking dish, combine the frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, water, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~300 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
