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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This ensures the casserole will cook evenly and the cheese will melt perfectly.
#### 2. **Assemble the Casserole**:
In a large baking dish (9×13 works well), begin by placing your **frozen meatballs** in an even layer at the bottom. There’s no need to thaw them—just place them straight from the freezer.
#### 3. **Add the Pasta**:
Next, sprinkle the **uncooked pasta** over the meatballs. The pasta will cook in the sauce as it bakes, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the meatballs and marinara.
#### 4. **Pour the Sauce**:
Pour the **marinara sauce** over the meatballs and pasta, ensuring everything is covered evenly. Add a pinch of **garlic powder** and **Italian seasoning**, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture gently if needed to distribute the sauce and seasonings.
#### 5. **Top with Cheese**:
Now for the best part—cheese! Sprinkle the **mozzarella** and **cheddar cheese** over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, golden crust as it bakes.
#### 6. **Bake**:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for **40-45 minutes**. After 30 minutes, remove the foil so the cheese can get golden and bubbly. The meatballs should be heated through, and the pasta will be perfectly tender.
#### 7. **Garnish and Serve**:
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh **basil** or **parsley** for a pop of color and extra flavor.
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### **Tips for the Best Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole:**
– **Use Quality Meatballs**: If you’re using store-bought meatballs, try to find ones with minimal fillers and a good balance of seasoning. Homemade meatballs also work great if you prefer to make them from scratch.
– **Pasta Choices**: Feel free to switch up the type of pasta. Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or ziti work best, but you can experiment with others. Just be sure to choose a pasta that will hold up well during baking.
– **Make it Healthier**: If you’re looking to make this casserole a bit lighter, you can use whole wheat pasta, lean turkey or chicken meatballs, and reduced-fat cheese. You could also add in some sautéed veggies, like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
– **Cheese Variations**: While mozzarella and cheddar are classic, feel free to add in other cheeses like Parmesan, provolone, or even a bit of ricotta for extra creaminess.
– **Gluten-Free Version**: For a gluten-free version, swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Check the package for the right cooking time, as it may vary slightly from traditional pasta.
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### **Why This Recipe Is a Winner:**
**Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole** is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of a classic meatball sub or spaghetti and meatballs in an easy-to-make casserole form. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Plus, with its minimal prep time and easy cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.
So, whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual dinner party, or just craving a comforting dish, this casserole is sure to be a hit. **Give it a try tonight and enjoy the effortless goodness!**
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