Go Back
–+ servings
Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole: The Ultimate Easy Comfort Food

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is a quick and easy dish merging meatballs and pasta for a delightful weeknight meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 12 ounces uncooked short pasta penne, ziti, or rigatoni
  • 24 ounces marinara or pasta sauce thick variety preferred
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
For the Flavor
  • 24 ounces frozen pre-cooked meatballs or homemade, adjust baking time
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or use fresh herbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping
  • 8 ounces shredded mozzarella dairy-free option available
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In the baking dish, mix the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and water or broth. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Gently press the frozen meatballs into the sauce mixture, ensuring even spacing.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes.
  5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, and optionally add Parmesan. Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes.
  6. Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure a tight foil seal while baking to prevent dry spots. Adjust baking time for homemade meatballs as needed.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!