Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is the ultimate easy meal for busy nights. The combination of savoury meatballs, marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese makes it irresistibly cheesy and comforting. The pasta soaks up all the delicious sauce, creating a hearty dish the whole family will love.

1. Ingredients:

• 500g frozen meatballs (or homemade)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the frozen meatballs and marinara sauce. Stir to coat the meatballs evenly.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the dish, spreading it out evenly over the meatballs and sauce mixture.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses on top of the pasta and meatballs.
5. Season with oregano, garlic powder, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatballs are heated through.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings