The Ultimate Easy Comfort Food

If you’ve ever wished for a recipe that’s as simple as it is satisfying, this Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender meatballs, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey melted cheese—all baked together in one dish with almost no prep. It’s the kind of hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but really takes just minutes of hands-on time.

Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or prepping meals for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes: quick, comforting, and absolutely delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – No need to boil pasta or brown meatballs separately. Just dump everything in a dish, bake, and enjoy.
• Family-Friendly Comfort – Rich pasta sauce, cheesy layers, and hearty meatballs make this a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
• Great for Meal Prep – This casserole reheats beautifully, so you can cook once and enjoy flavorful leftovers all week long.

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make this recipe—just a few basics:

• Large casserole dish (9×13-inch works perfectly)
• Aluminum foil (to keep everything moist while baking)
• Mixing spoon (for combining pasta, sauce, and meatballs)
• Measuring cups
• Cheese grater (if grating fresh Parmesan)

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this cozy casserole to life:

• 1 pound frozen meatballs – Tender, savory, and the star of the show.
• 1 can (24 ounces) pasta sauce – Use a high-quality marinara or your favorite homemade sauce.
• 1 cup water – Helps the pasta cook right in the oven.
• 2 cups uncooked pasta – Penne or rigatoni hold up well in baking.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into a gooey, golden topping.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
• Optional garnish – Fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

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How to Make Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4–6 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Assemble Ingredients – In a large casserole dish, combine frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, water, and uncooked pasta. Stir until evenly coated.
3. Cover & Bake – Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
4. Add the Cheese – Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
5. Finish Baking – Return to the oven uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve & Enjoy – Let it rest a few minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.

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Chef’s Notes & Variations

• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy meatballs for a little kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap meatballs for plant-based ones or roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Boost the Veggies: Stir in a handful of spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers before baking.
• Crispy Finish: For a golden top, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes after baking.

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Ingredient Spotlight: Pasta Sauce

Pasta sauce does more than coat the noodles—it acts as the base that ties the entire casserole together. A rich, flavorful sauce infuses the pasta as it bakes, ensuring every bite is saucy and satisfying. For best results, choose a sauce with natural ingredients and no added sugar, or make your own at home for a fresher taste.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes! Just make sure they’re cooked before adding to the casserole, and reduce baking time slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready (you may need to add 5–10 minutes to the cook time).

How do I store leftovers?
Place cooled casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water to keep it saucy.

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Perfect Pairings

• Garlic Bread – The ultimate side for scooping up cheesy pasta.
• Fresh Green Salad – A crisp salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Red Wine – Pair with a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot for a cozy dinner vibe.

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Final Thoughts

This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and one casserole dish, you can whip up a hearty, flavorful dinner that everyone will love.

📌 Save this recipe, give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version with friends or on Pinterest. Comfort food this easy deserves to be shared!