Description
A simple and delicious dump-and-bake meatball casserole featuring uncooked rotini pasta, frozen precooked meatballs, and savory pasta sauce, all baked together for an easy, comforting meal. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and optional Parmesan or parsley garnish, this casserole requires minimal prep and delivers hearty family-friendly flavor in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 box (16 oz) rotini pasta, uncooked
- 3 cups water
- 1 jar (24 oz) pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 bag (14 oz) frozen precooked meatballs, thawed
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, add the uncooked rotini pasta, then pour in the water and pasta sauce. Next, add the thawed meatballs and sprinkle the kosher salt over the mixture. Stir gently to evenly distribute all ingredients. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake Initial Stage: Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. About halfway through baking, carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole thoroughly to promote even cooking. Replace the foil and continue baking.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: After 35 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and stir once more. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish uncovered to the oven and bake for an additional 5–8 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Make sure to thaw the precooked meatballs before adding to ensure even heating.
- Stirring halfway through baking is crucial for even pasta cooking.
- You can substitute rotini with other small pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the pasta sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
