- by Chef Aleen
- 0 Like
- 0 / 5
- Cuisine: American
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Prep Time20 mins
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Cook Time1 hour
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Serving7
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Ready In1 hour 30 mins
There aren’t many dishes that compare to a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole’s comforting goodness and simplicity. This recipe is proof of the magic that can be created when a few basic ingredients are combined in a casserole dish to make a dinner that’s not only amazingly simple to make but also incredibly fulfilling for the whole family in terms of flavor. This casserole could be the ideal choice for anyone searching for a simple, quick supper.
The simplicity of Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is what makes it so beautiful. The following are the main components you’ll need:
- A box of short pasta, such as penne or rotini
- A jar of marinara sauce or pasta sauce with taste and some water
- Frozen meatballs (you can choose between plant-based, turkey, or beef varieties)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese to achieve that deliciously cheesy texture
- Add a dash of spiciness with crushed red pepper and garnish with fresh herbs.
Customizing Your Casserole
Although this casserole is a filling dish on its own, it can be perfectly balanced with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread. Additionally, this dish reheats beautifully, so if you want to prepare it ahead of time, it’s a perfect choice for meal prep or for nights when cooking is simply not on the schedule.
Notes:
- Your frozen meatballs must thaw. In a dish, nobody wants cold surprises!
- This dish can be made or broken by the marinara sauce selection. Select a premium brand that you love. Everything is about the sauce!
- Cooking times can vary depending on your oven and the kind of dish you use (ceramic, glass, or metal). Watch the spaghetti and make any necessary adjustments.
- Take care to avoid overbaking. Pasta that is soft but not mushy is our goal.
- Fresh herbs and a dash of Parmesan cheese provide a tasty and refreshing garnish that lifts the entire dish.
Ingredients
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Nutrition
- Daily Value*
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Calories: 480kcal
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Carbohydrates: 23g
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Protein: 31g
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Fat: 29g
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Cholesterol: 97mg
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Sodium: 919mg
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Potassium: 510mg
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Sugar: 4g
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Fiber: 2g
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Vitamin A: 815IU
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Calcium: 480mg
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Iron: 2mg
Directions
It’s the perfect recipe for those busy nights when you want a delicious home-cooked meal but don’t have the time or energy for complex recipes. Easy to make and fun to eat Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is always a dinner winner. It’s meaty, saucy, and cheesy perfection!
Set the oven temperature to a warm 425°F to get things started. The key to cooking anything to perfection is this tremendous heat.
In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, combine the raw pasta, meatballs, water, and flavorful marinara sauce. For an additional taste boost, add a small teaspoon of salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure everything is combined.
Bake your dish for 35 minutes in the oven, tightly covered with aluminum foil. The pasta cooks to perfection in the sauce and water mixture at this point, which is when the magic happens.
Remove the foil after 35 minutes and thoroughly mix the casserole. Make sure the pasta has the ideal "firm but just right" texture by testing it to ensure it is al dente. Never be afraid to cover it and return it to the oven if it need a little longer.
When the pasta is cooked to perfection, cover the top with a thick coating of mozzarella cheese. Put the dish back in the oven, uncovered this time, and cook for a further five to ten minutes, or until the pasta is soft and the cheese is melted perfectly.
Conclusion
This dish's versatility is one of its delights. To keep things fresh, feel free to try different kinds of pasta or even change up the sauce. Try using turkey meatballs for a lighter choice, or look at plant-based meatball options for a vegetarian twist. Incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach into your casserole can enhance its nutritional value and give it a vibrant hue.
Chef Aleen
AKC Recipes is a reflection of my culinary philosophy: food should be an adventure, a celebration, and a source of joy. Here, you’ll find a diverse array of recipes designed to cater to every occasion and preference. Whether you’re preparing a hearty breakfast to start your day, a nutritious lunch, a comforting dinner, or an indulgent dessert, I’ve got you covered.
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Ingredients
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Follow The Directions
It’s the perfect recipe for those busy nights when you want a delicious home-cooked meal but don’t have the time or energy for complex recipes. Easy to make and fun to eat Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is always a dinner winner. It’s meaty, saucy, and cheesy perfection!
Set the oven temperature to a warm 425°F to get things started. The key to cooking anything to perfection is this tremendous heat.
In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, combine the raw pasta, meatballs, water, and flavorful marinara sauce. For an additional taste boost, add a small teaspoon of salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure everything is combined.
Bake your dish for 35 minutes in the oven, tightly covered with aluminum foil. The pasta cooks to perfection in the sauce and water mixture at this point, which is when the magic happens.
Remove the foil after 35 minutes and thoroughly mix the casserole. Make sure the pasta has the ideal "firm but just right" texture by testing it to ensure it is al dente. Never be afraid to cover it and return it to the oven if it need a little longer.
When the pasta is cooked to perfection, cover the top with a thick coating of mozzarella cheese. Put the dish back in the oven, uncovered this time, and cook for a further five to ten minutes, or until the pasta is soft and the cheese is melted perfectly.
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