Description
This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate comfort food hack—juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese with just 10 minutes of prep. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb frozen meatballs (homestyle or Italian)
- 24 oz marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread frozen meatballs evenly.
- Pour marinara sauce over meatballs, ensuring full coverage. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the saucy meatballs.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly. Rest 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs.
Notes
- Meatball Swap: Use turkey or plant-based meatballs for a lighter or vegetarian twist.
- Sauce Upgrade: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or ricotta for a creamier texture.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate; add 5–10 minutes to baking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: easy meatball casserole, dump and bake recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food, Italian casserole, frozen meatball recipe