Description
This One Pot Dump and Bake Meatball Recipe is a simple, comforting, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining pasta, marinara sauce, and precooked meatballs all in one dish, it minimizes prep and cleanup while delivering a cheesy, hearty dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups water
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 16 ounces uncooked rotini or penne pasta
- 1 (14-ounce) package frozen precooked meatballs
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatball pasta dish.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large oven-safe casserole or Dutch oven, add 3 cups of water, the entire jar of marinara sauce, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to mix.
- Add Pasta and Meatballs: Pour in the uncooked rotini or penne pasta, then add the frozen precooked meatballs evenly over the top. Do not stir after adding pasta and meatballs to ensure even cooking.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the meatballs and pasta mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam and bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and meatballs are heated through.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the dish, and return to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use frozen precooked meatballs for ease and convenience; fresh meatballs can be used if cooked beforehand.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- Covering the dish while baking ensures the pasta cooks evenly by trapping steam.
- You can substitute mozzarella with another melting cheese like provolone or cheddar if desired.
- Letting the dish sit a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
Keywords: one pot meal, meatballs recipe, baked pasta, easy dinner, dump and bake, family meal, mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce