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Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

A hassle-free and comforting dish that combines frozen meatballs and rotini pasta with marinara sauce, baked to perfection with melted cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound frozen meatballs Use high-quality frozen meatballs like Tyson or Amy's.
  • 1 can (24 oz) marinara sauce Opt for a brand like Rao’s for rich taste.
  • 1 cup water Vegetable broth can enhance flavor.
  • 1.5 cups uncooked rotini pasta Rotini holds the sauce well; substitutes like penne or shells can be used.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Whole milk mozzarella is recommended.
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated will elevate the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder Adds depth to the dish.
  • to taste salt Adjust according to preference.
  • to taste pepper Adjust according to preference.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, water, uncooked pasta, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
  3. Stir well to mix all ingredients together.
  4. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil and stir the casserole.
  7. Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top, if desired.
  8. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  10. Enjoy your Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole!

Notes

Make sure to let the casserole rest before serving to enhance flavors and prevent burns. Customize with veggies or different pasta shapes for variations.