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.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 450 calories | Protein: 25 grams | Carbohydrates: 40 grams | Dietary Fiber: 3 grams | Sugars: 5 grams | Fat: 20 grams | Saturated Fat: 8 grams | Cholesterol: 50 milligrams | Sodium: 800 milligrams
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.