Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole: A Cozy Family Favorite

This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is an easy, flavorful dinner that kids will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 55

Resting Time 15

Total Time 1 10

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base

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

For the Meatballs

1 lb Frozen Pre-Cooked Meatballs

For Seasoning

1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Italian Seasoning
½ tsp Salt
¼ tsp Black Pepper

For the Cheesy Topping

2 cups Shredded Mozzarella
½ cup Grated Parmesan optional

For Garnish

2 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped

Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum Foil

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine uncooked short pasta, marinara sauce, and water or beef broth in the baking dish. Season mixture with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Nestle the frozen meatballs evenly into the pasta mixture.
Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes.
Let the casserole cool for 10–15 minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust baking time based on pasta size; let casserole rest for optimal flavor and easier slicing.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!