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Easy Cheesy Dump-and-Bake Meatball Marinara Pasta Recipe for Quick Dinners

dump-and-bake meatball marinara pasta - featured image
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A quick, no-fuss, and satisfying pasta dish combining frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, and cheese baked together for a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 ounces frozen pre-cooked meatballs
  • 12 ounces dry penne pasta
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 ½ cups water or chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine the dry pasta and meatballs in a mixing bowl. Toss in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
  3. Pour in the marinara sauce and water (or broth). Stir gently to mix everything together, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Give one last gentle mix to evenly distribute the seasoning.
  5. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and cook the pasta perfectly.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbly around the edges.
  9. Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil. Broil for 2-3 minutes to brown and crisp the cheese topping—watch closely to avoid burning.
  10. Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken and the flavors settle.

Notes

Do not skip the water or broth to hydrate the pasta. Covering with foil is essential to steam the pasta evenly. Broil at the end for a golden cheese crust but watch carefully to avoid burning. Resting the pasta after baking improves texture. You can stir halfway through baking if desired but it may disturb the cheese topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball pasta, dump and bake, quick dinner, cheesy pasta, marinara pasta, weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/easy-cheesy-dump-and-bake-meatball-marinara-pasta-recipe-for-quick-dinners/