Looking for a hearty, no-fuss dinner that’s ready with minimal effort? This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is your answer! With frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, and a cheesy marinara topping, this one-dish meal comes together in minutes and bakes to bubbly perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that requires almost no prep.

Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz) package frozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for topping, optional)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or similar)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up while you prep.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and uncooked pasta until everything is well-coated.
3. Fill the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the meatball-pasta mixture, spreading it evenly.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Add grated Parmesan for extra flavor, if desired.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
6. Garnish & Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side, if you like.

Tips for Success

• Pasta Choice: Use short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni for best results, as they hold up well during baking.
• Make it Your Own: Add veggies like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Storage: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal. No boiling pasta, no thawing meatballs—just mix, bake, and enjoy! It’s a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for families, potlucks, or anyone craving Italian-inspired flavors with minimal cleanup.

Give it a try and share your results with #MeatballCasserole or tag us on social media! Buon appetito!

Tags: #EasyDinner #DumpAndBake #MeatballCasserole #WeeknightMeals #ComfortFood