Dump and bake meatball casserole is packed with juicy, flavorful meatballs nestled in a bed of cheesy goodness. This delightful creation will leave you excited and coming back for seconds. Throw together this perfect easy prep and family-friendly meal in just 30 minutes.
Dump-and-bake meatball casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving some hearty goodness on a chilly evening, this easy meatball casserole is sure to hit the spot.
This recipe couldn’t be any easier using frozen meatballs to make the best casserole ever.
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, try Spaghetti Casserole with Meatballs, Meatball French Bread Pizza, and Meatball Italian Sliders.
Why We Love This Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe
Simple ingredients make this dump-and-bake casserole perfect for busy weeknights. Cooking dinner has never been easier because of this meatball recipe.
With over 200 easy and delicious dinner ideas, you'll never have to worry about what to make for dinner again.
- 30-Minute Meal: In just 30 minutes, prepare and cook this yummy cheesy meatball casserole. The bake time makes it great for any meal
- Easy Ingredients: You need less than 5 ingredients that can come directly from your pantry at home to make this easy meatball bake.
- Family Friendly: Adults and kids love this recipe so much. Everyone can’t wait to try this recipe.
- Make Ahead: Assemble all your ingredients on a casserole dish to prepare the meatball casserole the night before.
Ingredient Notes for Frozen Meatball Dump
- Frozen Meatballs: Use store-bought frozen meatballs so this is effortless. These meatballs don’t need to thaw ahead of time because they cook perfectly in the oven.
- Shredded Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole melts perfectly so everyone gets a cheesy bite.
- Marinara Sauce: Marinara sauce is a type of pasta sauce, thin and smooth because of how it is made. Make your own Hearty Marinara Sauce easily.
See my recipe card below for a complete list of the ingredients with measurements.
Variations and Substitutions for Meatball Casserole
A twist on traditional Italian cuisine, this meatball dump takes classic comfort food to new heights.
- Vegan/Vegetarian Meatballs: Make this yummy recipe so anyone can enjoy it. Use any meatball substitute.
- Chicken/Turkey Meatballs: Make a leaner easy dump and baked meatball dish by using chicken or turkey so there is less fat.
- Sliced Cheese: Sliced mozzarella or provolone works great if you don’t have any shredded cheese on hand.
How to Make this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe
From its perfectly seasoned balls of meat to its luscious layer of melted cheese, every bite of this casserole is incredible. Have an easy weeknight because you deserve something easy yet delicious.
These are the basic steps for making an easy meatball bake. Refer to the full, printable recipe card below for detailed instructions.
Step 1: Preheat Oven
To begin, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Step 2: Dump Meatballs
Next, place the frozen meatballs in a round or 9 x 13 baking dish (make sure they are in a single layer).
Step 3: Dump Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are fully covered.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Then, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5: Sprinkle Seasoning
Lastly, sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the dish.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the oven covered with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes, no longer than 35 minutes. Top with parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Recipe FAQs for Easy Meatball Bake
Expert Tips to Make a Meatball Pasta Casserole Recipe
Dump-and-bake meatball casserole will be the next family favorite because it simply tastes amazing. Get ready to bake this meal with ease.
- Baked Pasta: Make it a complete meal by boiling the pasta, draining and adding it to the casserole. Pasta is tender and top and bake with cheese.
- Serve with Rolls: Make a sub sandwich because you want something even more filling for dinner.
- Potluck Dish: This is a great meal to make if you have a party because of its serving size.
- Different Herbs: Different seasonings or fresh herbs will give you that delicious taste you want because of the flavors. Basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder will make meatball casserole so perfect.
What to Serve with Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Equipment
Ingredients
- 24 ounces Frozen Italian meatballs, 1 package
- 48 ounces Marinara sauce
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- Parsley, optional garnish
- Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- To begin, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Next, place the frozen meatballs in a round or square baking dish, ensuring they are in a single layer.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are fully covered.
- Then, add a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Lastly, sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the dish.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, no longer than 35 minutes. Top with parsley and Parmesan cheese (optional).
Expert Tips
- Serve with Rolls: Make a meatball sub because you want something even more filling for dinner.
- Potluck Dish: This is a great meal to make if you have a party because of its serving size.
- Different Herbs: Different seasonings or fresh herbs will give you that delicious taste you want because of the flavors. Basil, oregano, red pepper flakes and garlic powder will make meatball casserole so perfect.
I’ve made it and it’s delicious. Serve it with garlic toast.
I am so glad that you enjoyed it! Thanks for your feedback.
When I go to the recipe for your meatball casserole I get your recipe for sweet and spicy baked beans. Where is the recipe for the meatball casserole?
Yikes! I don’t know how that happened. I went in and fixed it though. Thanks for letting me know 🙂
Hi. I am trying to find your Meatball Casserole recipe. Can you help me please.
What kind of help do you need?