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Easy Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole with Mozzarella

This easy dump and bake meatball casserole combines rotini pasta, frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, bell peppers, and plenty of melted cheese in one simple baking dish. With no need to boil pasta separately, this comforting family dinner comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces dry rotini pasta
  • 2½ cups water
  • 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
  • 1 14-ounce bag frozen meatballs, thawed
  • 1 cup chopped bell pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Add dry rotini pasta, water, marinara sauce, thawed meatballs, chopped bell pepper, and salt directly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Stir the ingredients together until the pasta is evenly coated with sauce and the meatballs are distributed throughout the dish.
  4. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the pasta is tender and cooked al dente.
  5. Remove the foil and stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, mixing it throughout the pasta and sauce.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly bubbly.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired, then serve warm.

Notes

  • This recipe is designed for convenience by using frozen meatballs and prepared marinara sauce.
  • The pasta cooks directly in the baking dish, eliminating the need for a separate boiling step.
  • A 9×13-inch baking dish is used for the full recipe.
  • Fresh parsley or basil adds a bright finishing touch but is optional.
  • Make sure the baking dish is covered tightly during the first baking stage so the pasta cooks properly.