Dump And Bake Your Way To A Fantastic Meatball Casserole
There are so many days when I find myself caught up in the hustle and bustle of life that dinner becomes an afterthought. Sometimes, I know in advance that my day will be too busy to cook a meal later on, and that’s when recipes like this are lifesavers.
Dump and bake meatball casserole is exactly what it sounds like. You simply dump all five ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! Can it get any easier than that? Probably not. Enjoy this amazing meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those hectic days when you need a no-fuss meal. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and clean-up. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, thanks to its comforting blend of pasta, meatballs, and gooey cheese.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounce) package Barilla uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 (25 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups water
- 1 (14 ounce) package fully-cooked miniature (cocktail-size) meatballs (if using frozen meatballs, make sure they are completely thawed before using)
- 2 cups Kraft shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend) cheese
- Optional: Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped herbs (such as basil, oregano, and parsley) for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
- In a large baking dish, stir together uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and meatballs.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and stir the contents.
- Sprinkle mozzarella over the top and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pasta is tender.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your meatballs are fully thawed if using frozen ones, as this will help them cook evenly.
- Stirring halfway through the baking process ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
- Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and taste.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving is packed with protein from the meatballs and cheese, along with healthy carbohydrates from the pasta. It’s a well-rounded meal that offers comfort and satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish in the morning and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.
Conclusion
This dump and bake meatball casserole is a simple yet delicious solution to busy evenings. Give it a try and let its comforting flavors make your dinner time stress-free. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experiences!
