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Dump-and-Bake Meatball Parmesan Bake

A visually enticing meatball parmesan bake set against a rustic kitchen backdrop. In the foreground, a vibrant, casserole dish overflowing with golden-brown meatballs topped with bubbling, melted mozzarella cheese and fresh parsley sprigs. The dish is surrounded by a scattering of colorful bell peppers and red marinara sauce, adding pops of color. In the middle ground, a wooden cutting board displays freshly baked garlic bread slices, slightly toasted and glistening with olive oil, alongside a small bowl of marinara for dipping. The background features sunlit kitchen shelves filled with herbs and spices, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The lighting is soft and natural, offering a cozy feel, while the lens focuses on the casserole with a slight vignette to enhance depth. This image captures the essence of comfort food and easy meal preparation.

This Dump-and-Bake Meatball Parmesan Bake is an easy, cheesy comfort-food dinner that takes almost no effort. Frozen or fresh meatballs bake right in rich marinara sauce with tender pasta and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan—no boiling, no browning, and no extra dishes. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or make-ahead meals, this dump-and-bake casserole delivers classic Italian-inspired flavor with minimal prep and maximum payoff.

Equipment List

  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum foil

Shopping List

  • Frozen or fresh, fully cooked meatballs
  • Dry pasta (ziti, penne, or rotini)
  • Marinara sauce
  • Chicken broth or water
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Italian seasoning
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 45 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: easy
Cooking Temp: 375  F
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: 15
Calories: 320 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

An effortless and savory dish combining classic meatballs and gooey cheese for a hearty meal that's as simple as dump, bake, and enjoy!

Ingredients
    Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Frozen Meatballs (You can use homemade or store-bought meatballs.)
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce (Choose your favorite marinara sauce for this recipe.)
  • 1 1/2 cups Water
  • 1 cup Uncooked Pasta (Any small pasta shape works well.)
  • 1 1/2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
    Preparation
  1. 1
    Preheat OvenPreheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
    Ensuring the oven is preheated will help the dish cook evenly.
    2. Assembly
  2. 2
    Combine IngredientsIn the prepared baking dish, mix together frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, water, garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
    Make sure the meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce for flavor.
  3. 3
    Add PastaStir in uncooked pasta, ensuring it's submerged in the sauce mixture.
    This step ensures the pasta cooks properly in the oven.
    4. Bake
  4. 4
    Cover and BakeCover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour.
    Covering the dish helps the pasta cook through without drying out.
  5. 5
    Uncover and Add CheeseRemove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
    Adding cheese towards the end prevents it from burning.
    6. Serve
  6. 6
    Rest and EnjoyLet the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
    This step ensures the dish is easier to serve and enjoy.
Note
  • If using frozen meatballs, make sure they are fully thawed before adding to the dish.
  • Feel free to use homemade or store-bought marinara sauce based on your preference.
  • Customize with your favorite cheese blend like mozzarella, parmesan, or a mix of both.
  • Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: meatball, parmesan, bake, easy, one-pan
Read it online: https://bestrecipesblog.com/recipe/dump-and-bake-meatball-parmesan-bake/