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Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

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This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is an easy, hands-off dinner with no pre-cooking required! Just toss everything into a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do the work for you. Perfect for busy nights!

Ingredients

Scale
  1. 1 (12 oz) box uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti)
  2. 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  3. 3 cups water (or broth for extra flavor)
  4. 1/2 tsp salt
  5. 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  6. 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  7. 1 (16 oz) bag frozen meatballs (about 20 meatballs)
  8. 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  9. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  10. 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2️⃣ Dump Everything in a Baking Dish:

  • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  • Stir to mix everything together.

3️⃣ Add Meatballs:

  • Arrange frozen meatballs evenly over the pasta mixture. No need to thaw them!

4️⃣ Cover & Bake:

  • Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.

5️⃣ Finish Baking:

  • Remove foil, stir everything, and sprinkle mozzarella & Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6️⃣ Garnish & Serve:

  • Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
  • Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad!

Notes

  • You can use any type of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or ziti. Just make sure the pasta is uncooked!
  • Feel free to add other toppings like red pepper flakes or extra herbs.
  • For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta or turkey meatballs.

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