Go Back
–+ servings
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole for Effortless Family Dinner

No ratings yet
Discover the effortless and delicious Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole, a dish that combines meatballs, pasta, and marinara into a single cheesy family meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 box uncooked penne pasta (12 oz) Short pasta like penne or rotini works best.
For the Sauce
  • 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz) Store-bought or homemade.
For the Cooking Liquid
  • 3 cups water or beef broth Broth adds extra flavor.
For the Protein
  • 1 bag frozen meatballs (1 lb) Homestyle or Italian-style, no thawing required.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adjust according to preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Optional; use fresh garlic for bolder taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Optional; can be omitted.
For the Cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can substitute with Pecorino Romano.
For the Garnish
  • Fresh parsley Optional; adds color and freshness.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In the baking dish, combine uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, and water or beef broth. Add frozen meatballs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
  3. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, checking for tenderness.
  4. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
  5. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.
  6. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This casserole is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. Store in an airtight container and reheat as needed.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!