Short Description

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is an easy, comforting one-dish meal combining frozen meatballs, rich pasta sauce, and melty cheese baked together to perfection. With minimal prep and delicious results, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole requires almost no prep—just combine ingredients and bake. The frozen meatballs cook right in the sauce, soaking up flavor while the cheeses melt into a bubbly, golden topping. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for those who want a tasty meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

1 pound frozen meatballs (about 36 meatballs)
24 ounces (680g) pasta sauce
16 ounces (454g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup (10g) chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large bowl, combine frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the meatballs are thoroughly heated and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to firm up before serving.
Serve warm directly from the baking dish, optionally paired with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

Serves approximately 6 people. Preparation time is about 5 minutes, with a baking time of 30 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti) to the mixture before baking for a complete pasta bake.
Mix in sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
Use different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella blends for varied flavor.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning added to the sauce.
Top with fresh basil or extra parsley after baking for freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes, cooked homemade meatballs can be used. Adjust baking time to ensure they are heated through.

Do I need to thaw the frozen meatballs before baking?

No, frozen meatballs can be used directly in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Check the pasta sauce and meatballs for gluten ingredients to ensure suitability.

Can I add pasta to this casserole?

Yes, cooked pasta can be mixed in before baking for a fuller meal.

How do I prevent the cheese from over-browning?

Cover the casserole loosely with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove foil to brown the cheese.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Garlic bread, green salad, or steamed vegetables complement the dish well.

Can I use shredded mozzarella from a block or pre-shredded?

Both work fine, but shredded from a block melts more evenly.

How spicy is this casserole?

This recipe is mild; add crushed red pepper or spicy sausage for heat.

Conclusion

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a quick and satisfying meal that combines hearty meatballs, savory sauce, and gooey cheese in one simple dish. Perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd, it’s a comforting classic that’s easy to prepare and always delicious.

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

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Author: Douaa
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: -6 servings

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Description

This easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a comforting, no-fuss meal combining frozen meatballs, rich pasta sauce, and gooey melted cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole comes together quickly and bakes to bubbly, cheesy perfection.

Ingredients

1 pound frozen meatballs (about 36 meatballs)
24 ounces (680g) pasta sauce
16 ounces (454g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (10g) chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large bowl, combine frozen meatballs, pasta sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until meatballs are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving; the casserole will firm up as it cools.
Serve warm directly from the dish, optionally with a side of garlic bread or salad.

Notes

Use your favorite pasta sauce for customized flavor.
Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh note but can be omitted or substituted.
Perfect for making ahead and reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American