Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner that requires minimal effort, this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the perfect choice! This one-pan meal is rich, hearty, and packed with classic Italian flavors—all without the need to pre-boil pasta! Simply dump everything into a baking dish, let the oven do the work, and enjoy a cheesy, saucy, and delicious meal with your family.

This dump-and-bake recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights and is freezer-friendly, making it ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an effortless comfort food dish, this meatball casserole is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No pre-boiling required – The pasta cooks in the sauce for the ultimate convenience.
Minimal cleanup – Everything bakes in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and store for later!
Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, flavorful dish.

Ingredients and Their Role
Main Ingredients:
Frozen Meatballs (Defrosted) – Adds protein and hearty texture. You can use beef, turkey, or plant-based meatballs.
Marinara or Spaghetti Sauce – The base of the casserole, providing a rich, tomatoey flavor. Use homemade or store-bought sauce.
3 Cups of Water – Helps cook the pasta directly in the dish, making the sauce extra rich.
Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – Holds the sauce beautifully and stays firm while baking.

Seasoning & Cheese:
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Enhances the Italian flavors with a mix of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 ½ Cups) – Adds gooey, melty goodness to the casserole.
Parmesan Cheese (¼ Cup, Grated) – Provides a sharp, nutty flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a high-sided, oven-proof pot or large baking dish, add the meatballs, marinara sauce, water, pasta, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook directly in the sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Step 4: Add the Cheese
Remove the casserole from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 6: Rest & Serve