Description
A simple and hearty Dump and Bake Meatball Pasta Casserole that combines frozen cooked meatballs, penne pasta, and marinara sauce baked to perfection with melted mozzarella cheese on top. This one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights and serves a comforting Italian-inspired dinner with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1.5-2 lbs frozen cooked meatballs (about 24-30 meatballs)
Pasta and Sauce
- 16 oz penne pasta
- 1 jar marinara sauce (44-48 ounces)
- 3 cups water
Topping
- 2 cups grated low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, add the uncooked penne pasta, the full jar of marinara sauce, and 3 cups of water. Stir gently to combine the pasta and sauce evenly.
- Add Meatballs: Place the frozen cooked meatballs on top of the pasta mixture evenly. Avoid stirring the meatballs into the pasta to maintain layers and texture.
- Cover Dish: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and help cook the pasta through.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the covered dish on the middle oven rack. Bake for 40 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven and carefully uncover it. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatballs and pasta surface.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to melt the cheese. Cover with foil if you prefer the cheese not to brown, or leave uncovered for a golden melted cheese topping.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and the dish to set. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Using frozen cooked meatballs cuts down the prep time significantly.
- Do not stir after adding meatballs to keep layers intact.
- Adjust water measurement if using a different pasta shape or brand to ensure it cooks properly.
- Cover with foil while melting cheese if you prefer no browning, or keep uncovered for a crisp golden top.
- Leftovers refrigerate well for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Pasta Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
