πŸ₯˜ Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole – One-Pan Wonder That Saves Time & Money!


 


Looking for an easy, budget-friendly dinner that practically makes itself? Say hello to the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole — your new go-to comfort dish that’s as simple as it is delicious.

This hearty casserole combines frozen meatballs, canned sauce, cheese, and a few pantry staples into one deliciously gooey, oven-baked masterpiece. No chopping, no browning — just dump everything in a dish and bake . It’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make this super-simple casserole from scratch (or using shortcuts), plus share expert tips, variations, and even how to monetize this content if you run a blog or YouTube channel.

Let’s dive in!


πŸ§‘‍🍳 What Is Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole?

As the name suggests, a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is a “no-fuss” meal where all ingredients are simply dumped into a baking dish and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a favorite among home cooks who want something satisfying with minimal effort.

It’s:

  • Easy to make (no cooking skills required!)
  • Budget-friendly
  • Great for picky eaters
  • Perfect for meal prep or freezer meals
  • Customizable based on dietary needs

Whether you're a beginner cook or a seasoned pro looking for a shortcut dinner, this casserole has got you covered.


πŸ›’ Ingredients You'll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet satisfying dish:

For the Base:

  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice (optional, for added heartiness)
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth

For the Meatball Layer:

  • 1 lb frozen cooked meatballs (beef, pork, turkey, or plant-based)
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or spaghetti sauce)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

πŸ’‘ Tip: Use gluten-free pasta or rice if needed, and check that meatballs and sauce are also GF.


πŸ”ͺ Step-by-Step Instructions



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