Ingredients:
- 1 (16 ounces) package of uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 (24 or 25 ounces) jar marinara sauce (Choose your favourite brand for the best flavour!)
- 3 cups water
- 1 (14-ounce) package fully-cooked miniature (cocktail-size) meatballs (Thaw completely if frozen)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley
Instructions:
- Kick things off by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F. This high heat is the secret to getting everything cooked just right.
- Grab a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and mix the uncooked pasta, savory marinara sauce, water, and meatballs. Add a pinch of salt for that extra flavor kick. Stir everything well to combine.
- Cover your dish snugly with aluminum foil and let it bake in the oven for 35 minutes. This is where the magic happens – the pasta cooks perfectly in the sauce and water mixture.
- After 35 minutes, take off the foil and give the casserole a good stir. Test the pasta to make sure it’s al dente – that perfect ‘firm but just right’ texture. If it needs a bit more time, don’t hesitate to cover it up and pop it back in the oven.
- Once the pasta is just right, sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered this time, for another 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is deliciously melted and the pasta tender.
FAQs:
- What is a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole?
- A Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a convenient and easy-to-make dish where you simply “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. It typically includes frozen or pre-cooked meatballs, pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese, creating a hearty and delicious meal with minimal preparation.
- How do I make a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole?
- To make a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, combine uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water or broth, and frozen meatballs. Stir to ensure everything is mixed well. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?
- Yes, you can use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the casserole. You can also use pre-cooked store-bought meatballs if you prefer.
- What types of pasta work best in this casserole?
- Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, ziti, or rotini work best in this casserole. These types of pasta cook evenly and hold the sauce well, resulting in a delicious and well-coated dish.
- Can I add vegetables to the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole?
- Absolutely! You can add vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or zucchini to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply mix the vegetables in with the other ingredients before baking. Make sure to cut them into small, even pieces so they cook properly along with the pasta and meatballs.