Description
Hearty dump-and-bake meatball casserole delivers comfort with minimal effort, blending pasta, savory meatballs, and melted cheese in one simple dish. Italian-inspired flavors meld seamlessly, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 16 frozen meatballs (about 1 package)
Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 box (16 oz/454 g) penne pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz/680 g) marinara sauce
Cheese and Seasonings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, frozen meatballs, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Gently mix all ingredients until the pasta and meatballs are evenly coated with sauce and seasonings.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and ensure pasta cooks properly.
- Bake covered for 35 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce and cook through.
- Remove foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly with slight golden edges.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to allow sauce to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot directly from the baking dish, ensuring each portion has meatballs, pasta, and plenty of cheesy goodness.
Notes
- Swap frozen meatballs with homemade or plant-based alternatives for customized protein options that suit different dietary preferences.
- Experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free penne to accommodate gluten-sensitive guests while maintaining the dish’s hearty texture.
- Use low-sodium marinara and reduce added salt for a heart-friendly version that doesn’t compromise on delicious flavor profile.
- Consider adding fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to brighten the casserole’s overall taste and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg