Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 16 oz rotini pasta (uncooked); 3 cups water; 24 oz pasta sauce; 14 oz precooked meatballs (thawed); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Introduction to Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner that can please everyone in the family, look no further than this Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole. With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, this dish is not only comforting but also incredibly simple to prepare. Just dump the ingredients, bake, and enjoy a warm, cheesy meal that will become a family favorite!

A Personal Story Behind My Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole Journey

Growing up, my family had a few go-to recipes that always brought us together. This meatball casserole was one of them. My mother would whip it up on busy weeknights, and its comforting smell wafting through the house always made everyone feel at home. As I grew older and started cooking for myself, I learned the joy of this easy dish and how it could turn a hectic day into a cozy family meal.

What Makes This Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe Special?

This recipe is special for several reasons. First, it requires minimal prep work, making it ideal for those with a busy lifestyle. The combination of rotini pasta, savory meatballs, and gooey mozzarella cheese creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Additionally, it’s highly customizable—add your favorite pasta sauce or a handful of veggies to make it your own!

The Full Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

1 box (16 oz) rotini pasta, uncooked
3 cups water
1 jar (24 oz) pasta sauce
1 bag (14 oz) frozen precooked meatballs, thawed
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Spread the uncooked pasta evenly in the baking dish. Add water, pasta sauce, the thawed meatballs, and salt. Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep the moisture in while baking.

Bake for 35 minutes. Be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial for perfectly cooked pasta!
Once the pasta is cooked, stir it well to combine all the flavors. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve your delicious baked meatball pasta hot, and consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For variations, feel free to switch up the pasta sauce—try a marinara, alfredo, or pesto sauce depending on your mood. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole

Can I use different types of pasta?
No problem! While rotini works great, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand.

How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider using whole grain pasta or adding more vegetables to increase the fiber content. You can also opt for low-fat cheese.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.

No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories per Serving: 450

Servings: 6