Looking for a straightforward and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy evenings? Try this easy-to-make Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole! It’s a hassle-free dish that requires just a handful of ingredients and can even be prepared in advance. This casserole is especially ideal for those bustling weeknights and can be frozen for later use.

Recipe Customizations

• Preferably use smaller, cocktail-sized meatballs for this casserole, particularly if kids are part of your dinner crowd. However, if larger meatballs are all you have on hand, they’ll work just fine.
• Feel free to use any type of meatball you like, whether it’s turkey, Italian, beef, chicken, or pork. Pick the one that suits your taste buds the most!
• While frozen meatballs are suggested for their convenience, opting for fresh, fully-cooked meatballs is also a great choice for this recipe.
• Don’t have rotini pasta? No problem. Substitute it with other short pasta varieties such as penne or elbow macaroni. Just make sure to pick pasta that cooks in about the same time (7-8 minutes) as rotini to maintain the same baking duration.
• Cooking for fewer people? Simply halve the ingredient amounts and use an 8-inch square baking pan instead. Keep an eye on the pasta; it might cook quicker in a smaller dish, so checking around the 30-minute mark is a good idea.

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is not just about ease; it’s about bringing a satisfying and hearty meal to the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just a few, this versatile and comforting dish is sure to be a hit!

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole: Your New Go-To Comfort Dish

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook elaborate meals can be a challenge. Enter the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole – a dish that exemplifies convenience without compromising on taste. This recipe is designed for those who love hearty, comforting meals but have limited time to spend in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who loves fuss-free cooking, this casserole will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

The Recipe: A Blend of Simplicity and Flavor

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity – just a few ingredients combined and baked to perfection, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

• Frozen meatballs: 1 bag (about 24-30 meatballs)
• Pasta: 2 cups uncooked (like penne or rotini)
• Marinara sauce: 1 jar (24 ounces)
• Chicken broth: 2 cups
• Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 1/2 cups
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional): For garnish

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, add the uncooked pasta, frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir to mix.
3. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Effortless Cooking: With minimal preparation and no need to pre-cook ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those busy days.
• Versatility: You can easily customize the casserole. Use different types of pasta, sauces, or cheeses to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great option for family meals.

Conclusion

The Dump and Bake Meatball Cass