Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole with Pasta
Try Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole when you need a hearty weeknight meal with the least amount of effort. In the oven in just 5 minutes!
Ingredients
- 24 ounce jar pasta sauce
- 3 cups water
- 16 ounce box penne pasta
- 16 ounce bag shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12 ounce bag frozen meatballs thawed
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Assemble Pasta Base: Add uncooked 16 ounce box penne pasta to the dish. Pour 3 cups water and 24 ounce jar pasta sauce over the pasta. Stir to fully coat.
- Layer the Casserole: Add half of the meatballs evenly over the pasta, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Finish Assembly: Add the remaining meatballs in neat rows or columns, then sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
- Add Herbs and Cover: Sprinkle parsley flakes over the top. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
- Bake Covered: Bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and pasta is tender.
- Cool Slightly: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble casserole up to one day in advance and refrigerate. Add 5 extra minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.
Storage: Cover tightly or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions: Assemble but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 60-70 minutes or thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Customization Ideas: Use your favorite jarred sauce (vodka, basil garlic, or spicy arrabbiata). Try other shredded cheeses like provolone or a cheddar blend for a fun twist.
Substitutions: Swap penne for shells, elbows, or bowties. Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a leaner option.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 | Calories: 513cal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 790mg | Sugar: 5g | Fiber: 3g | Calcium: 319mg | Iron: 2mg