Meatball Casserole Recipe
User Reviews
4.3
-
Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
45 mins
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Total Time
55 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
595 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Meatball Casserole Recipe
Description
This casserole begins by defrosting frozen meatballs, then combining them in a baking dish with uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, and water. The mixture is baked covered with foil, allowing the pasta to cook through by steaming evenly in the sauce. Stirring halfway helps prevent sticking and promotes cooking.
After the initial baking, shredded mozzarella cheese is added on top, and the casserole returns to the oven uncovered until the cheese melts and lightly browns. The dish rests briefly before serving to let flavors meld and the casserole set.
It is important to keep the baking dish covered during most of baking to maintain steam and moisture for tender pasta; otherwise, the pasta may dry out and remain chewy. This casserole makes a filling meal suitable for family dinners and provides convenience by using pre-made meatballs.
Ingredients
- 14-32 ounces meatballs frozen, in bag
- 1 pound penne pasta 16 ounces, in box
- 24 ounces marinara sauce jar
- 3 cups water
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese , shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly spray a casserole dish or 9 x 13” pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large microwave safe bowl, add the 14-32 ounces bag of frozen meatballs. Using the defrost setting, defrost the meatballs for 5-7 minutes or until completely thawed.
- To the prepared baking dish or pan, add the 1 pound box of penne pasta, 24 ounces jar of marinara sauce and 3 cups water. Using a rubber scraper, stir to combine. Add in the thawed meatballs.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes, stirring the casserole halfway through baking.
- Remove from oven and top the casserole with 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (shredded). Bake for another 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted and light golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- If you've tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings.
Notes
- Cover the casserole dish during baking to retain steam and ensure pasta cooks evenly and stays tender.
- Uncovered baking may cause pasta to dry out and become tough or partially cooked.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 595 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 595kcal | 30% |
| Carbohydrates | 63g | 21% |
| Protein | 31g | 62% |
| Fat | 24g | 37% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 77mg | 26% |
| Sodium | 822mg | 34% |
| Potassium | 724mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 751IU | 15% |
| Vitamin C | 8mg | 9% |
| Calcium | 235mg | 24% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.3
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