Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a quick and easy one-dish meal combining rotini pasta, savory meatballs, and rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole requires minimal prep and cooks in one baking dish for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 box (16 oz) rotini pasta, uncooked
- 3 cups water
- 1 jar (24 oz) pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 bag (14 oz) frozen precooked meatballs, thawed
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, add the uncooked rotini pasta, followed by the water, pasta sauce, thawed meatballs, and kosher salt. Stir gently to combine and distribute ingredients evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake Initial Stage: Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. About halfway through, carefully remove the foil and stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure even cooking. Replace the foil and continue baking.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: After 35 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and stir again. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Be sure to use thawed precooked meatballs to ensure even heating throughout the baking process.
- Stirring halfway through baking helps the pasta cook evenly and prevents sticking.
- If you prefer, you can use fresh herbs for garnish instead of parsley.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Italian
