Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

The aroma of savory meatballs mingling with marinara sauce is nothing short of heavenly. This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a quick and effortless dish that comes together in just a little over an hour. Its simplicity is one of the secrets to its appeal, requiring minimal prep and only one baking dish for cleanup.

This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone craving comfort food without the fuss. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings when you want to impress with minimal effort. Plus, it stores well, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The pasta cooks perfectly alongside the meatballs, soaking in all the delicious flavors.
• It only takes about 40 minutes in the oven, making it an efficient choice for dinner.
• The cheese becomes bubbly and golden, adding a delightful texture to every bite.
• You’ll only need one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients for a delicious meal.

For the Casserole

• 1 (12 oz) box uncooked penne pasta
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 3 cups water or beef broth
• 1 (1 lb) bag frozen meatballs (about 24 meatballs)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

For the Topping

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Use broth for a richer flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Olive oil instead of cooking spray for greasing.
• Any short pasta in place of penne.
• Ground turkey meatballs as a lower-fat option.
• Dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.

How to Make It

Follow these easy steps to create your casserole.

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.

2. Combine ingredients

In a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, stir together uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water (or broth), frozen meatballs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything is well mixed and pasta is submerged.

3. Cover and bake

Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

4. Add cheese

Remove the foil and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.

5. Bake uncovered

Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

6. Rest and serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, but it may alter the texture.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 3–4 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce to cook evenly.
• Opt for high-quality marinara for richer flavor.
• Let it rest after baking to enhance flavors.
• Use different cheeses for a personalized taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for a classic Italian night.
• Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.