50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole
As a busy mom, I know how precious every minute can be, especially when it comes to dinner time. That’s why I’m excited to share my 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole with you! This dish is not just a quick solution for a hectic weeknight; it’s also a comforting meal that your family will love. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a delightful casserole that’s sure to impress. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that brings joy to the dinner table without the stress!
Why You’ll Love This 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole
This 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is a lifesaver for busy nights. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few minutes of your time. The best part? It’s a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup for you! Plus, the combination of savory meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that will have your family asking for seconds. Trust me, this dish is a weeknight hero!
Ingredients for 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Frozen meatballs: These are the star of the dish! You can use store-bought or homemade, depending on your preference.
- Marinara sauce: This adds a rich, tangy flavor. Feel free to choose your favorite brand or even make your own for a personal touch.
- Uncooked pasta: Any short pasta works well here. I love using penne or rotini for their ability to hold onto the sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: This melty goodness creates that gooey top layer we all crave. You can substitute with a dairy-free option if needed.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a nice salty kick. It’s optional, but I highly recommend it for extra flavor.
- Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs brings warmth and depth to the dish. You can also use fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning! Adjust to your taste, but don’t skip these staples.
For those looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta. And remember, if you want to get ahead, you can prepare this casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is as simple as it sounds. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly. No one wants a cold center, right? So, let that oven warm up while you prepare the rest!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large baking dish, combine the frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, and uncooked pasta. Just toss them all in together! The meatballs will thaw and cook while the pasta absorbs all that delicious sauce. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Next, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens! Stir everything together until well mixed. The seasoning will elevate the flavors, making each bite a delight. Don’t be shy—taste as you go!
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is important because it traps steam, helping the pasta cook perfectly. Bake for 30 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
🚫 Don’t Buy This If…
- ❌ You hate hosting fun parties
- ❌ You don’t like saving time in the kitchen
- ❌ You only want boring, basic recipes
✅ What You’ll Get:
- ✅ 63 spooky & delicious Halloween recipes
- ✅ Creepy treats, eerie snacks, scary drinks & more
- ✅ Kid-friendly & adult-approved
- ✅ 📥 Instant digital download – start cooking today!
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Now, it’s time to sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want that cheese to be bubbly and golden brown—pure comfort food!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Then, dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Your family will be raving about this dish for days.
Tips for Success
- Use a large baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t skip the foil cover; it keeps the pasta moist.
- For extra flavor, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
- Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly. You can also use a large oven-safe skillet.
- Aluminum foil: Essential for covering the dish. If you don’t have foil, a lid will do.
- Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon for combining ingredients. A spatula can work too!
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out meatballs for plant-based alternatives or use hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a filling dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the marinara sauce for a zesty twist that will wake up your taste buds.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile that your family will love.
- Whole Grain Goodness: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences while keeping the dish wholesome.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or parsley can be added before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen? Absolutely! If you have homemade or fresh meatballs, feel free to use them. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may require less time to heat through.
What type of pasta works best for this casserole? I recommend using short pasta like penne or rotini. They hold the sauce well and cook perfectly in the casserole. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Is this dish suitable for freezing? Definitely! This 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed.
How can I make this casserole healthier? To lighten it up, consider using whole wheat pasta and leaner meatballs. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor!
Summarizing the Joy of 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole
There’s something truly special about gathering around the table for a meal that’s both comforting and quick to prepare. This 50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole not only saves you time but also brings smiles to your family’s faces. The delightful combination of flavors and textures creates a warm atmosphere, perfect for sharing stories and laughter. Plus, knowing you’ve made a delicious meal with minimal effort is a win in my book! So, embrace the joy of cooking with this easy recipe, and let it become a cherished part of your family’s dinner traditions.
Print
50-Minute Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole is Delightful!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and easy meatball casserole that can be prepared in just 50 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen meatballs
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup uncooked pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, and uncooked pasta.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to use homemade meatballs if preferred.
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg