Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Introduction

Few dinners are as effortless and satisfying as a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole. Hearty, savory, and bursting with Italian flavors, this one-pan wonder requires zero pre-cooking—just layer, bake, and enjoy. It’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal dishes to wash.

Why Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a Hit

The genius of this casserole lies in its convenience and homestyle flavor. Frozen (or homemade) meatballs, dry pasta, marinara, and cheese meld together in one casserole dish, creating a cheesy, bubbly comfort food classic. Its “dump and bake” method means everything is combined right in the baking dish—no sautéing, no stove top, just easy prep and big flavor.

Essential Prep for a Great Bake

For best results, use high-quality, flavorful meatballs—either store-bought or your favorite homemade recipe. To save time chopping onions, peppers, or other veggies for the mix, a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper ensures uniform pieces and expedites prep. Coat your baking dish with oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

If you want an extra toasty cheese layer, consider broiling for a few final minutes after baking. Use a KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitt Set for safe handling straight out of the oven.

Baking the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil before baking to trap moisture and ensure the pasta cooks evenly. For a nonstick solution and easy cleanup, line the casserole dish with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll. After baking, remove the foil and add a bit more cheese for a final melty, golden top.

A digital check on your casserole’s internal temp with the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking guarantees the meatballs are heated through for food safety and tenderness.

Serving Suggestions to Round Out Your Meal

This comforting casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp, fresh green salad or lightly steamed veggies. Portion leftovers into Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy packable lunches or kid-friendly dinners later in the week. Serve with garlic bread or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole yields about 6 generous servings. Each serving contains approximately 400–500 calories, with protein from the meatballs, carbohydrates from the pasta, and calcium-rich cheesy goodness—making it a filling, crowd-pleasing dinner.

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole (Recap)

For a flavorful family meal requiring almost zero “hands-on” time, this casserole is unbeatable. The ease of dumping everything in one dish and baking to bubbly perfection promises a dinner everyone will love, with plenty of opportunity for leftovers.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy cleanup.
2. Add the uncooked pasta, frozen meatballs, diced bell pepper, and onion directly into the dish. For ultra-fast veggie prep, use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper.
3. Pour marinara sauce and water (or broth) evenly over the mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella and half the Parmesan cheese across the top. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything.
4. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the casserole. Return to oven (uncovered) and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until pasta is cooked and cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. For safe handling, grab a KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitt Set.
6. Optionally, use the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking to verify meatballs reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, scoop onto plates, and enjoy!

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

Total Time: 55–60 minutes

Enjoy this easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole—your oven does all the work, while you just savor the results!