Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Explore the comforting world of Italian cuisine with this Savory Italian Meatball Casserole. This dish is a beloved staple that brings warmth and satisfaction to family dinners and gatherings. Imagine a bubbling casserole dish filled with tender pasta, hearty meatballs, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with a generous layer of gooey cheese. In just 40 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that will please even the pickiest eaters. This article will guide you through the recipe, providing insights into the ingredients, preparation methods, and tips for making it your own.

Discover the joy of cooking with this Savory Italian Meatball Casserole! This scrumptious dish combines tender pasta, flavorful meatballs, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey cheese, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. In just 40 minutes, you'll have a comforting meal that pleases even the pickiest of eaters. Get creative with ingredient substitutions and enjoy a dish that warms both the heart and home. Dive into the full recipe now!

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Ingredients

2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work best)

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 lb frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or veggie)

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup Italian blend cheese (mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan)

1 cup water

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Dish: In a large 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and frozen meatballs.

Mix it Up: Add the water, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the dish. Stir everything together until well combined. Ensure that the pasta is submerged in the sauce mixture.

Add Cheese: Sprinkle the top of the casserole with the mozzarella cheese, followed by the Italian blend cheese, ensuring an even coverage.

Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Uncover and Continue Baking: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy a hearty meal with your family or guests!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6