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Easy Cheesy Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

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A comforting and easy dump-and-bake casserole featuring frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, and a cheesy blend of mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 frozen meatballs (about 1 pound/450g), preferably pre-cooked Italian style
  • 3 cups (24 fl oz/720 ml) marinara sauce
  • 2 cups (7 oz/200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (1.75 oz/50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 ounces (340g) uncooked pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
  • 3 cups (24 fl oz/720 ml) water or broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add uncooked pasta to the casserole dish, then evenly layer the frozen meatballs on top.
  4. Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta, ensuring everything is well covered.
  5. Pour 3 cups of water or broth evenly over the mixture to cook the pasta while baking.
  6. Sprinkle the mixed dry seasonings evenly over the dish, then drizzle the tablespoon of olive oil on top.
  7. Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil, sealing the edges to trap steam.
  8. Bake in the oven for 40 minutes.
  9. Carefully remove the foil (watch for steam!) and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top.
  10. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Notes

If pasta is not tender after 40 minutes, bake covered for an additional 5-10 minutes before adding cheese. Use pre-cooked frozen meatballs for best results. Shredding your own cheese improves melt and texture. Let casserole rest before serving to firm up. Variations include vegetarian meatballs, spicy sauce, low-carb pasta substitutes, and slow cooker adaptation.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball casserole, dump and bake, easy dinner, cheesy casserole, family dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/easy-cheesy-dump-and-bake-meatball-casserole-recipe-for-perfect-family-dinners/