Easy to Make Meatball Casserole Recipe

Looking for a quick, comforting dinner solution that’s as easy as it is delicious? This easy Meatball Casserole recipe has you covered!

With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect one-dish meal for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

Featuring tender pasta, marinara sauce, savory meatballs, and gooey mozzarella cheese, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to customize it to your taste.

What is a Meatball Casserole?

Meatball Casserole is a no-fuss meal where all the ingredients—pasta, sauce, meatballs, and water—are combined directly in a baking dish and baked to perfection.

The magic happens in the oven as the pasta cooks in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors, while the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly topping.

It’s a delicious, hearty dinner that requires zero stovetop prep, making it ideal for those busy evenings.

Ingredients for The Easy to Make Meatball Casserole Recipe

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (16-ounce) package uncooked rotini pasta – The perfect shape for holding onto the sauce.
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce – Use your favorite brand for the best results.
• 3 cups water – Helps cook the pasta right in the baking dish.
• 1 (14-ounce) package fully-cooked cocktail-size meatballs – Thawed if frozen for even cooking.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – For a creamy, melted topping.

Optional Garnishes:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or oregano

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this casserole lies in its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Pasta: Substitute rotini with penne, fusilli, or ziti for a similar texture.
• Sauce: Swap marinara with arrabbiata for a spicy kick, or use Alfredo sauce for a creamier version.
• Cheese: Try a mix of mozzarella and provolone, or add Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
• Meatballs: Use turkey, chicken, or plant-based meatballs for a healthier or vegetarian alternative.
• Veggies: Add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure even baking.

2. Combine Ingredients

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the uncooked rotini pasta, marinara sauce, and water. Stir to coat the pasta evenly. Add the meatballs, distributing them evenly across the dish.

3. Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and ensure the pasta cooks through. Bake for 35 minutes.

4. Check the Pasta

Remove the foil and stir the casserole. Test the pasta for doneness—it should be al dente. If it’s not quite there, cover the dish again and bake for another 5-10 minutes.

5. Add Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Frozen Meatballs: Ensure meatballs are thawed completely to avoid uneven cooking.
• Skipping the Foil: Covering the dish is essential for cooking the pasta evenly and preventing it from drying out.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta and test for doneness after 35 minutes to avoid mushy noodles.
• Too Little Sauce: Use enough sauce and water to properly cook the pasta and maintain a saucy consistency.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

• Family Style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual, communal feel.
• Individual Portions: Plate individual servings with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of garlic bread or salad.

Presentation Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Add a pop of color and flavor with fresh basil, parsley, or oregano.
• Cheese Layer: Create an extra golden topping by broiling the casserole for 2-3 minutes after adding the cheese.
• Side Pairings: Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.

Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the initial baking time if starting from cold.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish (without baking) and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use homemade meatballs?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding to the casserole.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and check the marinara sauce and meatballs for gluten-free labels.

Q: How can I add more flavor?
A: Add a splash of red wine to the sauce, or sprinkle Italian seasoning over the dish before baking.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can mix in provolone, Parmesan, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

Easy to Make Meatball Casserole Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz) package uncooked rotini pasta
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 3 cups water
• 1 (14 oz) package fully-cooked miniature meatballs, thawed if frozen
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, mix pasta, marinara sauce, and water.
3. Add thawed meatballs and stir to combine.
4. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
5. Remove foil, stir, and check pasta for doneness. Bake for 5-10 minutes if needed.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake uncovered for 5-10 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired.

Nutrition:
Calories: 450 | Protein: 20g | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 50g

Conclusion

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate fuss-free dinner solution that delivers big on flavor and convenience.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to please.

With its rich marinara, tender pasta, savory meatballs, and gooey cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.

Customize it to suit your family’s preferences, and enjoy the simplicity of a delicious, one-dish meal. Happy cooking!