Dump Bake Meatball Casserole: 5-Minute Prep Comfort Meal

Dump Bake Meatball Casserole is an easy meal that combines tender meatballs, gooey cheese, and savory marinara sauce all baked together in one dish. This comforting casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. With minimal effort and only a few ingredients, it’s a family-friendly meal that everyone will love, ready in under an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Dump Bake Meatball Casserole

This meatball casserole is not only super easy to prepare, but it offers a variety of benefits:

• Quick and simple: Just 10 minutes of prep time and then let the oven do the work.
• Family-friendly: Perfect for picky eaters, and customizable to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Comfort food: The combination of melted cheese and hearty meatballs makes it irresistible.
• One-pan dish: Easy clean-up with all ingredients baked in one baking dish.
• Meal prep: Great for leftovers, storing well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Budget-friendly: Uses frozen meatballs and pantry staples, making it an economical meal option.

This easy meatball bake recipe is a go-to solution for a quick dinner, making it a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Ingredients for Dump Bake Meatball Casserole

Gather these items:

• 1 bag of frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or veggie—your choice!)
• 1 cup uncooked pasta (any shape works—penne, rotini, or shells are perfect)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Dump Bake Meatball Casserole Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Step 2: In your prepared baking dish, combine the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and garlic powder. Stir everything together to coat the pasta well in the sauce and evenly spread the meatballs.
3. Step 3: Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan cheese (if using).
4. Step 4: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Step 5: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Dump Bake Meatball Casserole

Keep these in mind:

• This casserole is great for meal prep; make a double batch and freeze half for later!
• You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.
• For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

Best Ways to Serve Dump Bake Meatball Casserole

Serving suggestions include:

• Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for a delightful side.
• Top with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Dump Bake Meatball Casserole

To store, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. This makes for a perfect quick meatball bake meal for busy days!

Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Bake Meatball Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Dump Bake Meatball Casserole?

The key is to ensure the pasta is well-coated in sauce before baking. This will help it cook evenly and absorb all the flavors, making it a comfort food meatball casserole that everyone will love.

Can I make Dump Bake Meatball Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This is perfect for dump-and-bake dinner ideas when you’re short on time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Dump Bake Meatball Casserole?

One common mistake is not using enough sauce. Make sure to coat the pasta well to prevent it from drying out during baking. Also, keep an eye on the baking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Variations of Dump Bake Meatball Casserole You Can Try

Here are some fun variations:

• Swap out the marinara sauce for Alfredo for a creamy twist.
• Add in your choice of vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a healthier option.
• Use different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for unique flavor profiles.
• Try using different types of meatballs, like chicken or veggie, to suit dietary preferences.

With these variations, you can easily customize your one-pan meatball casserole to keep things exciting!

For more delicious recipes, check out homemade tomato sauce or spaghetti with garlic and oil. You can also explore veggie burgers with avocado green harissa for a tasty alternative!

Print