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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine Ingredients in a Baking Dish
- In a large baking dish, combine the frozen meatballs, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and water or broth. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Season the Mixture
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Give it another stir to combine the seasonings well.
4. Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb the sauce and cook properly.
5. Add Cheese
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, before serving.
Tips for the Best Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
- Meatball Choices: You can use homemade meatballs or store-bought frozen ones. If using homemade, ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the casserole.
- Pasta Types: While this recipe works best with short pasta shapes, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if necessary.
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider mixing in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini with the other ingredients.
- Cheese Varieties: While mozzarella is a classic choice, try mixing in other cheeses like provolone, parmesan, or cheddar for extra flavor.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Conclusion
The Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a delightful solution for busy weeknights, delivering deliciousness with minimal effort. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. So, the next time you’re pressed for time but want a homemade meal, gather your ingredients, dump them into a baking dish, and let the oven do the work. Enjoy the savory aroma and the satisfaction of a hearty dinner that requires just a few simple steps!