Description
If you’re looking for a hassle-free dinner that delivers on flavor, the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is your answer! This one-dish meal combines tender rotini pasta, savory marinara sauce, and juicy meatballs into a comforting casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and just one baking dish to clean, you’ll have more time to relax with family or guests. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Enjoy this deliciously cheesy meal topped with melted mozzarella that everyone in the family will love!
Ingredients
- 16 oz uncooked rotini pasta
- 24–25 oz marinara sauce
- 3 cups water
- 14 oz fully cooked miniature meatballs
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, combine uncooked rotini, marinara sauce, and water. Add thawed meatballs and mix well.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil, stir gently, and check if pasta is al dente; if not done, cover again and bake for a few more minutes.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and return to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (200g)
- Calories: 355
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 745mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach before baking. Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or any cheese of your choice for a flavor twist. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3–4 days or frozen for later.