Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Enjoy a scrumptious meal without the fuss with Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole! This easy-to-make dish requires no pre-cooking or extensive preparation. Simply “dump” the ingredients together, and the oven does the rest. In this article, we present a comprehensive recipe with a table sheet format for ingredients, ensuring a hassle-free and delicious casserole experience.+
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe: A Flavorful Feast
Let your taste buds rejoice as you savor the delightful flavors of Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole. Follow the straightforward steps below to create a tasty and comforting meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
Gather all the essential ingredients for this effortless Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole using the table sheet format below:
| INGREDIENTS | QUANTITY |
|---|---|
| Frozen Meatballs | 1 (24-ounce) bag |
| Uncooked Penne Pasta | 1 pound |
| Marinara Sauce | 3 cups |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Ricotta Cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 2 cups |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh Basil (optional) | To taste |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, combine the frozen meatballs, uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Season to Taste: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to suit your preference for flavor.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole for 35 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil, and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Broil for a Golden Finish: Turn the broiler on and broil the casserole for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish the casserole with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
- Experiment with Pasta: Feel free to use other types of pasta, such as rigatoni or macaroni, for a fun twist.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some vegetables by adding diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the casserole.
- Meatball Variety: Try different types of meatballs, such as beef, turkey, or chicken, to change up the flavor.
- Spice it Up: If you prefer a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Use Homemade Sauce: While store-bought marinara sauce works well, using homemade sauce can elevate the dish even further.
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole offers the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With the simple table sheet format for ingredients, you can create this comforting and delicious meal in no time.
