Name: Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole: A Cozy Family Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Uncooked Short Pasta (penne, ziti, or rigatoni are great substitutes); 1 jar Marinara or Pasta Sauce (24–26 oz); 3 cups Water or Low-Sodium Beef Broth; 1 lb Frozen Pre-Cooked Meatballs; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Italian Seasoning; ½ tsp Salt; ¼ tsp Black Pepper; 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella; ½ cup Grated Parmesan (optional); 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)

As the evening rush hour approaches, my kitchen transforms into a cozy sanctuary filled with the aroma of Italian comfort. In less than 90 minutes, you can whip up this Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole, a dish that simplifies dinner without skimping on flavor. Here’s the magic: uncooked pasta cooks right in a savory marinara sauce, soaking up all that goodness, while melty mozzarella graces the top like a warm hug. Perfect for busy weeknights and potlucks, this kid-friendly meal checks off all the boxes for a hearty, satisfying feast. Trust me, your family will love it—especially those little ones who are always looking for something delicious! Are you ready to dive into this cheesy masterpiece?

Why is this the ultimate casserole?

Simplicity at Its Best: This dump-and-bake meatball casserole is as easy as it gets! You’ll only need basic kitchen skills to create a dish that impresses.

Flavorful Comfort: With rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, each bite is a delightful experience reminiscent of your favorite Italian meals.

Kid-Approved: Perfect for families, this kid-friendly dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters, making dinner less of a battle.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap out ingredients like meatballs or pasta types—making it your own is part of the fun! For a breakfast twist, check out my Eggs Benedict Casserole.

Convenient Make-Ahead Option: You can prep this casserole ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for potlucks; just pop it in the oven when ready!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this dish promises to be a hit with everyone at the table!

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish!

For the Casserole Base

Uncooked Short Pasta (1 lb) – This forms the structure of your casserole; penne, ziti, or rigatoni are great substitutes!
Marinara or Pasta Sauce (1 jar, 24–26 oz) – Adds delicious flavor and moisture; choose your favorite for best results.
Water or Low-Sodium Beef Broth (3 cups) – Hydrates the pasta as it bakes; broth brings a richer taste to the dish.

For the Meatballs

Frozen Pre-Cooked Meatballs (1 lb) – They provide a hearty protein boost; for a homemade alternative, ensure they’re cooked properly.

For Seasoning

Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic is an alternative, though it requires a bit more prep!
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Infuses aromatic herbs into the dish; don’t hesitate to adjust to your taste.
Salt (½ tsp) & Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Season to your preference; keep in mind the saltiness of your sauce.

For the Cheesy Topping

Shredded Mozzarella (2 cups) – Creates that irresistible gooey topping; you can swap in dairy-free cheese if preferred.
Grated Parmesan (optional, ½ cup) – Adds savory notes and enhances umami; it’s not mandatory but so delightful!

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – This brightens up your casserole, adding freshness and a pop of color to the dish.

Dive right into making your dump-and-bake meatball casserole with these simple yet essential ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. This will ensure your dump-and-bake meatball casserole comes out effortlessly when it’s ready to serve.

Step 2: Prepare the Base
In your greased baking dish, combine 1 pound of uncooked short pasta with 24–26 ounces of marinara or pasta sauce. Pour in 3 cups of water or low-sodium beef broth, stirring gently to mix. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper—make sure the pasta is fully submerged for even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Meatballs
Next, take your 1 pound of frozen pre-cooked meatballs and nestle them evenly into the pasta mixture. This step not only adds protein but also infuses the casserole with delightful flavor as it bakes. Ensure the meatballs are spaced out for optimal heating, allowing each one to absorb the delicious sauce.

Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, making sure the edges are crimped down securely. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. This covered cooking will create steam, allowing the pasta to soften beautifully and cook through.

Step 5: Add Cheese
After 35–40 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and, if desired, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered, allowing it to bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, creating a golden, delicious crust.

Step 6: Rest & Serve
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 10–15 minutes. Giving it this resting time allows the flavors to meld and will help you serve cleaner slices. Finally, garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving warm.

How to Store and Freeze Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

Fridge: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through for a quick meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) in a tightly covered dish for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and follow baking instructions as usual.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2–3 minutes. If reheating the whole casserole, cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through.

Make-Ahead Option: This dump-and-bake meatball casserole can be prepared 6 hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if coming from cold!

Expert Tips for the Best Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

Seal It Right: Ensure a tight seal when covering the dish with foil to trap the steam effectively, which is crucial for cooking the pasta thoroughly.
Mind the Pasta Size: Adjust baking time if using larger pasta shapes, as they may require longer cooking to reach the perfect tenderness.
Flavor Boosters: Consider adding in diced bell peppers or thawed peas for extra nutrition and flavor; just make sure to adjust seasoning accordingly.
Rest for Perfection: For the best results, let your casserole rest for 10–15 minutes after baking to achieve clean slices and enhanced flavors.
Cheese Choices: Use high-quality cheese for that gooey top; feel free to substitute with dairy-free cheese if needed for a lighter version of this dump-and-bake meatball casserole.

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Variations

Get creative with this delightful dish, and tailor it to suit your family’s taste preferences!

Turkey Meatballs: Substitute standard meatballs for turkey options for a lighter, healthier twist. They still pack a punch of flavor!
Vegetarian Option: Use veggie meatballs or even sautéed mushrooms for a robust, meat-free alternative that maintains all the heartiness.
Pasta Alternatives: Mix things up by using whole grain or gluten-free pasta varieties; this makes the casserole accessible for those with dietary preferences.
Creamy Sauce: Swap marinara for creamy Alfredo or pesto sauce for a rich flavor profile; your tastebuds will thank you!
Extra Veggies: Adding spinach or broccoli not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color to the dish—what a win-win!
Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy marinara on the side.
Cheesy Delight: Take it over the top by adding creamy ricotta or sharp cheddar cheese along with mozzarella for ultimate cheesiness!
Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate chopped kalamata olives and artichoke hearts for a flavorful Mediterranean spin; perfect for those adventurous eaters!

Don’t hesitate to experiment! You might find a new favorite twist on this classic. And if you’re curious for other casserole inspirations, check out my delicious Broccoli Cheese Casserole or the sweet indulgence of Buttermilk Pancake Casserole.

What to Serve with Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

This hearty casserole pairs deliciously with a variety of flavorful sides to create a comforting meal experience.

Garlic Bread: This classic side elevates the Italian theme, perfect for dipping into the rich marinara sauce. The buttery, garlicky aroma will draw everyone to the table.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole and adds a pop of color. Toss in your favorite veggies for extra crunch and nutrients!
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli balances the richness of the casserole while adding a nutritious touch. A squeeze of lemon can brighten this side even more.
Roasted Vegetables: Consider roasting seasonal vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for a sweet and smoky complement. The caramelization enhances their natural flavors perfectly.
Italian-Style Coleslaw: This tangy slaw, infused with Italian flavors, brings brightness to your meal and is an unexpected twist to keep things exciting.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: Add some extra indulgence with fresh, warm knots, made easily from pre-made dough brushed with garlic butter and cheese, perfect for mopping up sauce.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy a glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio alongside your casserole. The wine’s acidity will cut through the richness, enhancing your dining experience.

These delightful additions will transform your Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole into a complete and satisfying meal for family and friends. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These dump-and-bake meatball casseroles are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate to preserve freshness. If you need more time, it can also be prepped and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months; ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, pull it from the fridge or freezer, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time for a chilled casserole. This way, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free, delicious meal, just as satisfying as if it were freshly made!

Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best uncooked short pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! I recommend using pasta shapes like penne, ziti, or rigatoni for the best results. They will hold up well during baking while soaking in the marinara sauce. Just make sure the pasta is completely submerged in the liquid mixture for even cooking!

What’s the best way to store leftovers from the casserole?
Store any leftover dump-and-bake meatball casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze the casserole before baking it?
Yes! For freezer storage, assemble the casserole in a tightly covered dish without baking, and it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the baking instructions. Just remember to increase the time by 5-10 minutes since it will be cold!

What should I do if the casserole seems dry after baking?
If your casserole looks dry, it might need more liquid next time! Make sure all pasta is submerged, and you can try adding a bit more broth or water next time—around 1/2 cup should help. Additionally, covering the dish tightly with foil can help trap steam and moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you or anyone you’re serving has food allergies, check the ingredient labels for potential allergens, like gluten in traditional pasta or dairy in cheese. For dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese alternatives to cater to those needs!