Easy Steps for Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

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Recipe Preparation 🍳

  1. Preheat Your Oven 🔥
    Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This ensures your casserole bakes at the perfect temperature right from the start.

  2. Assemble the Ingredients 🥄
    Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the uncooked rotini pasta. Follow this by adding the frozen meatballs—no need to thaw them. Then, pour in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and chicken broth. Stir everything together so the pasta is well-coated with the liquids.

  3. Bake ⏲️
    Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. The pasta should cook and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

  4. Add the Cheese 🧀
    After baking, uncover the dish and stir the ingredients. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  5. Garnish and Serve 🌿
    For the final touch, sprinkle fresh chopped herbs over the casserole. This will add a burst of freshness to your dish. You can also add a little grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

Extra Tips 💡

  • Thawing Meatballs: If you’re using frozen meatballs, make sure they’re properly thawed to ensure even cooking.

  • Quality Marinara: The marinara sauce you choose can really elevate the dish. Opt for a rich, flavorful sauce. Personally, Rao’s brand is a great choice, but feel free to try others that suit your taste.

  • Baking Adjustments: Keep in mind that baking times may vary depending on your pan type and oven. Glass and ceramic dishes usually require more time to cook than metal ones.

  • Texture Check: Avoid overbaking the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy. The pasta should be tender but not overly soft.

Garnish and Serve 🍽️

Once your casserole is baked to perfection, you can garnish it with a handful of fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano, and a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan. These additions will enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish.

Conclusion 🎉

The Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is an effortlessly delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and easy steps, you’ll have a comforting and hearty meal ready in no time. So why not give it a try? You might just surprise yourself with how simple and satisfying this meal can be!

Happy cooking! 👩‍🍳👨‍🍳

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