Dump and Bake Your Way To A Fantastic Meatball Casserole

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• Easy

Ingredients:

• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (16 oz) package frozen meatballs
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • In the baking dish, combine the marinara sauce, water, diced tomatoes (with juice), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add Meatballs and Pasta:
   • Add the frozen meatballs and uncooked pasta to the sauce mixture. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed and the pasta is coated with the sauce.
4. Top with Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
6. Uncover and Finish Baking:
   • After 35 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg

This easy “Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole” is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a hearty and delicious meal with minimal prep work. Enjoy!