Say goodbye to kitchen chaos and hello to simplicity with our Dump and Bake Meatball Pasta Casserole—a one-pan wonder that combines convenience with mouthwatering flavors. This hassle-free recipe eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, letting you enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or simply looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, this casserole has got you covered. Join us as we dive into the ingredients, guide you through the step-by-step instructions, share cook notes and variations, and provide keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to experience the joy of a comforting meal without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (16 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or vegetarian)
- 1 can (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Casserole:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, add pasta, frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Water: Pour water over the ingredients, ensuring everything is submerged. Gently stir to combine.
Baking to Perfection:
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through.
- Uncover and Add Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve directly from the dish and enjoy!
Cook Notes
- Choose Your Pasta: Pick a pasta shape that holds up well in the casserole, like penne or rigatoni, to ensure a satisfying bite.
- Meatball Options: Select your favorite frozen meatballs—beef, turkey, or even vegetarian options work well in this recipe.
- Cheese Perfection: Experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique flavor twist. Try adding a touch of provolone or fontina for extra richness.
Variations
1. Veggie Delight:
Boost the nutritional content by adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the casserole.
2. Spicy Kick:
For a spicy version, mix in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce.
3. Alfredo Fusion:
Replace the marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy and comforting alternative.
Keto Versions
For those on a keto journey, consider these modifications:
- Zoodles Swap: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) to reduce the carb content.
- Low-Carb Marinara: Opt for a low-carb or sugar-free marinara sauce to align with keto principles.
- Almond Flour Meatballs: Create keto-friendly meatballs using almond flour as a binder.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these adjustments:
- Vegetable Pasta: Replace traditional pasta with spiralized vegetable noodles, such as zucchini or spaghetti squash.
- Lean Meatball Option: Choose lean meat or plant-based meat alternatives for a lower-fat and lower-carb option.
- Reduced-Carb Cheese Blend: Use a blend of reduced-fat or part-skim mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to cut down on overall carbs.
The Dump and Bake Meatball Pasta Casserole is a testament to the fact that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep and a straightforward baking process, this casserole showcases the beauty of simplicity without compromising on taste. Whether you stick to the classic recipe, explore exciting variations, or adapt it to keto and low-carb lifestyles, this dish invites you to savor the joy of a comforting meal with ease. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and embrace the convenience of a one-pan wonder that delivers on both flavor and convenience. Here’s to the delight of effortless cooking and the satisfaction of a delicious Dump and Bake dinner!
