Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole: Quick, Easy, Cheesy
An easy, family-friendly dinner that requires zero prep—just dump everything in a dish and bake! This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is packed with flavor, gooey cheese, and tender pasta.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounces) package of uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 (24 or 25 ounces) jar marinara sauce (Choose your favourite brand for the best flavour!)
- 3 cups water
- 1 (14-ounce) package fully-cooked miniature (cocktail-size) meatballs (Thaw completely if frozen)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional for garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, mix the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and meatballs. Add a pinch of salt and stir everything well to combine.
3. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and stir the casserole. Check the pasta for doneness. If it needs more time, cover and return to oven.
5. Once the pasta is al dente, sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with grated Parmesan and chopped herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
This is a great make-ahead meal—assemble it earlier in the day and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Try using different pasta shapes or adding chopped spinach for extra veggies. Leftovers reheat beautifully!
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/dump-and-bake-meatball-casserole/