Cheesy and Savory Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
When the craving for a hearty, comforting meal strikes, there’s nothing quite like a Cheesy and Savory Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole to satisfy your taste buds. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and filling meal with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to prepare this mouthwatering casserole, ensuring that it turns out perfectly every time.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 lb frozen meatballs | The star of the dish, offering protein and flavor. Choose beef, turkey, or plant-based options. |
| 1 cup uncooked pasta | Short pasta shapes like penne or ziti work best, absorbing sauce and baking evenly. |
| 2 cups marinara sauce | Provides rich tomato flavor and moisture for the pasta. Opt for homemade or store-bought. |
| 1 cup water | Essential for cooking the pasta directly in the dish, ensuring tenderness. |
| 1 cup shredded mozzarella | Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping. |
| 1/4 cup grated Parmesan | Adds a nutty, savory flavor and a slightly crispy texture to the topping. |
| Fresh basil for garnish | Brings freshness and a pop of color to the finished casserole. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Meatball Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial to ensure your casserole bakes evenly, with the cheese melting to perfection and the pasta cooking just right.
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Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
In a large baking dish, begin by spreading the uncooked pasta evenly across the bottom. The pasta will act as the foundation of your casserole, absorbing the flavors of the sauce and meatballs as it bakes.
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Next, pour the marinara sauce over the pasta, making sure it covers the pasta completely. This sauce not only provides flavor but also the necessary moisture for the pasta to cook evenly.
Add the cup of water, distributing it evenly over the pasta and sauce. This ensures that the pasta becomes tender during baking, as it soaks up the water and sauce.
Now, arrange the frozen meatballs on top of the pasta and sauce mixture. As the casserole bakes, the meatballs will release their juices, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Add the Cheesy Topping
Once the meatballs are in place, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire dish. This cheese will melt into a golden, gooey layer that adds a creamy texture to every bite.
Follow up with the grated Parmesan cheese, sprinkling it over the mozzarella. The Parmesan will give the casserole a slightly crisp, savory topping that pairs perfectly with the melty mozzarella underneath.
Step 4: Baking the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in, allowing the pasta to cook through without drying out. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.
After the initial baking time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. This step is key to achieving a bubbly, golden-brown cheese layer that’s slightly crispy on top.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Before serving, garnish the casserole with fresh basil. This final touch adds a burst of freshness and a vibrant green color that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy, golden top.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Cheesy and Savory Casserole
Scoop the casserole onto plates and serve immediately. The combination of tender pasta, juicy meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual dinner, this casserole is bound to become a favorite.
