Easy Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole — minimal prep, maximum flavor

Ouadie Rhabbouron
  1. Add the uncooked pasta, pasta sauce, water, thawed meatballs, and kosher salt (plus any optional seasonings) into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Stir everything together thoroughly until the pasta is completely submerged in the liquid and evenly coated with the sauce. Ensure the pasta is not poking up out of the liquid.

 

Step 3: Bake Covered

 

  1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  2. Bake for 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the dish from the oven, carefully remove the foil, and give the casserole a good stir.
  4. Check the pasta for doneness. If it's still crunchy, re-cover and bake for another 5-10 minutes. The pasta should be al dente (tender but firm).

 

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish

 

  1. Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  2. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.

 

Step 5: Rest and Serve

 

  1. Carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly.
  2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

 

💡 Tips and Variations

 

  • The Thaw: While some recipes say you can use frozen meatballs, we recommend thawing them overnight in the refrigerator for the best, most consistent results.
  • The Sauce Matters: Since there are so few ingredients, using a high-quality, flavorful jarred pasta sauce makes a big difference in the final taste.
  • Add Veggies: Feel free to mix in $\frac{1}{2}$ to 1 cup of chopped veggies, such as diced onions, bell peppers, or fresh spinach, when you first dump the ingredients. For firmer vegetables like peppers, chop them small or sauté them briefly beforehand.
  • Make it Creamy: Stir in $\frac{1}{2}$ cup of ricotta cheese or a dollop of cream cheese when you add the mozzarella for a richer, creamier texture.
  • Spiciness: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick!

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