Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Enjoy a hassle-free dinner with this delicious Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole, a comforting dish that brings together hearty flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole features tender meatballs, bowtie pasta, and marinara sauce, all baked to perfection in one pot.

Topped with gooey mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires just a few simple ingredients and no fuss. Just mix, bake, and savor the delightful combination of cheesy, meaty goodness!

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Ingredients

1 Bag frozen meatballs defrosted

1 Jar marinara or spaghetti sauce

3 Cups of water

1 Box Bowtie pasta

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 ½ C. Mozzarella cheese

¼ C. Parmesan cheese grated

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Add the meatballs, jar of sauce, water, pasta an Italian seasoning to a high sided oven-proof pot or skillet. Stir to combine.

Bake covered for 35 minutes.

Top with cheeses and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes:

Frozen Meatballs:

You can use store-bought frozen meatballs or homemade ones if you have them on hand. If using frozen, make sure they are defrosted before adding them to the casserole.

Pasta Variations:

While bowtie pasta works well, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different shapes may require slight adjustments.

Adjusting Sauce and Water:

The amount of water may vary depending on how saucy you prefer your casserole. If you like a thicker sauce, consider reducing the water by half a cup.

Cheese Options:

Feel free to mix and match cheeses! In addition to mozzarella and parmesan, consider adding provolone, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of feta for added flavor.

Vegetable Add-Ins:

For added nutrition, you can mix in some chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly to accommodate for the additional moisture.

Storage:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can also add a nice touch before serving.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can use homemade meatballs if you prefer.

Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the casserole.

What can I substitute for bowtie pasta if I don’t have any?

You can substitute other pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti if you don’t have bowtie pasta on hand.

Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Is it necessary to use an oven-proof pot or skillet?

Using an oven-proof pot or skillet is recommended because it allows you to easily transfer the dish from the stovetop to the oven.

If you don’t have one, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish before baking.

Can I use a different type of cheese for topping the casserole?

While the recipe suggests mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, you can certainly experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences.

Cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack are some alternatives.

Do I have to let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving?

Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set and cool slightly.

While it’s not strictly necessary, it can make it easier to serve without being too hot, and it allows the flavors to meld together.

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can use fresh homemade meatballs if you prefer.

Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the casserole.

Do I need to defrost the frozen meatballs before using them in this recipe?

Yes, it’s recommended to defrost the frozen meatballs before using them in this recipe.

You can do this by letting them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost function on your microwave.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of bowtie pasta?

Absolutely! You can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or spaghetti if you don’t have bowtie pasta available.

Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

What can I serve as a side dish with this casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.