A quick and hearty dinner with no prep work — just dump, bake, and enjoy cheesy, saucy perfection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal prep — just dump ingredients and bake.

• Cheesy, saucy, and comforting dinner.

• Perfect for busy weeknights or easy meal prep.

• Can be customized with your favorite pasta or meatballs.

Ingredients

• 1 lb frozen meatballs

• 1 can (24 oz) pasta sauce

• 1 cup water

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
  Prep Time: 5 minutes
  Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
  Total Time: 55–60 minutes
  Yield: 4 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a casserole dish, combine frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta. Mix well.

Step 3: Bake Covered

Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes, fresh or pre-cooked meatballs work; adjust baking time if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble and refrigerate before baking, adding a few extra minutes to cook time.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rotini or shells works well.

Final Thoughts

This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is a quick, cheesy, and comforting dinner with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a family-friendly favorite that’s ready in under an hour.