Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Pasta Casserole is a simple, hearty one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining uncooked pasta, frozen meatballs, and a flavorful tomato sauce, everything cooks together in the oven to deliver a cheesy, comforting casserole with minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 16 ounces rotini pasta (uncooked; penne or ziti may be substituted)
- 24 ounces spaghetti sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup milk
Meatballs and Seasonings
- 14 ounces frozen meatballs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cheese and Garnish
- 1½ cups mozzarella cheese (shredded – or as much as you like)
- Parmesan cheese and herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Heat the oven to 425°F. Lightly coat a standard 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked pasta, spaghetti sauce, milk, water, frozen meatballs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt to the baking dish. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta is well coated with the liquids and ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Initial Baking: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. This allows the pasta to begin cooking and the meatballs to heat through.
- Stir and Continue Baking: Remove the dish from the oven and stir everything well to redistribute the ingredients and prevent sticking. Cover again with foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cheese Topping: Remove the foil and check the pasta for tenderness; it should be cooked but not mushy. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the casserole and bake uncovered for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute penne or ziti for the rotini pasta if preferred.
- Use your favorite spaghetti or marinara sauce for different flavor profiles.
- Frozen meatballs can be pre-cooked or store-bought for convenience.
- Covering the dish with foil helps cook the pasta evenly and keeps moisture in.
- Allowing the casserole to rest after baking lets it set, making it easier to serve.
- For a lighter option, use low-fat cheese and milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Italian
