Description
Looking for an easy dinner idea that’s rich, cheesy, and guaranteed to please the whole family? This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a one-dish wonder loaded with juicy meatballs, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese—all baked together in a flavorful marinara sauce. With no need to boil pasta or pre-cook meatballs, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, quick meal prep, or when you want a no-fuss comfort food. It’s the ultimate easy recipe that checks all the boxes for dinner ideas, quick meals, and food ideas that don’t sacrifice flavor for convenience.
Ingredients
16 oz uncooked rotini pasta
24 oz marinara sauce
3 cups water
26 oz frozen fully-cooked meatballs
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add uncooked rotini pasta and spread it evenly.
3. Pour marinara sauce and water (or broth) over the pasta.
4. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until pasta is well coated.
5. Evenly place frozen meatballs over the mixture and gently press them in.
6. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
7. Uncover, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, and bake uncovered for 10–15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
Use frozen *fully cooked* meatballs only—no need to thaw!
For extra flavor, swap water with chicken broth.
To customize, mix in chopped veggies like spinach or zucchini before baking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 880
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 60
Keywords: easy recipe, dump and bake, meatball pasta, dinner ideas, quick meals, cheesy casserole