Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a delightful mix of savory meatballs, marinara sauce, and pasta baked to perfection. Ideal for a quick family dinner, it combines irresistible flavors with simple preparation, making it a must-try for anyone craving a hearty homemade meal.
Ingredients
- marinara sauce
- water
- Italian seasoning
- kosher salt
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- uncooked pasta
- thawed meatballs
- mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- fresh herbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In the prepared dish, mix together the marinara sauce, water, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the uncooked pasta and thawed meatballs to the dish, and stir to combine. Make sure to press the noodles down into the liquid.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- After baking, remove the foil and gently stir. Check the pasta for doneness; if still firm, cover again and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes before checking again.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the pasta is tender.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs as desired.
Notes
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Make sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce for even cooking.
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg