Comfort on a Plate: Pennsylvania’s Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole Recipe

Photo bySimply Homemade Recipes

When it comes to simple, no-fuss meals, Pennsylvania knows how to deliver hearty, flavorful dishes that bring families together. One standout recipe that's gained popularity across the state is the Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole. This dish perfectly combines comfort food staples like pasta, marinara, and mozzarella with the ease of a one-dish wonder. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this casserole is a go-to for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

A Pennsylvania Favorite

Pennsylvania has always been a state known for its rich, home-cooked meals, often featuring local ingredients and hearty flavors. From the Amish influences in Lancaster to the Italian traditions found in Philadelphia, comfort food is deeply rooted in the state’s culinary history. This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole embraces that same tradition, with savory meatballs, tangy marinara, and cheesy goodness all baked together to perfection. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this casserole checks all the boxes.

Imagine a bubbling dish of golden-brown cheese, perfectly tender bowtie pasta, and juicy meatballs—all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. The casserole is baked to perfection in the oven, making your kitchen smell irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that begs to be shared, whether you're hosting a dinner or simply indulging in some solo comfort food.

Recipe: Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 Bag of frozen meatballs, defrosted
• 1 Jar of marinara or spaghetti sauce
• 3 Cups of water
• 1 Box of bowtie pasta
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ Cups of mozzarella cheese
• ¼ Cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a casserole dish with high sides or a large skillet, combine the defrosted meatballs with marinara sauce and water.
3. Stir in the uncooked bowtie pasta, making sure everything is evenly coated.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
5. After 35 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the casserole.
6. Return the dish to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
7. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and making it easier to dish out.

The Perfect Crowd Pleaser

The beauty of this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is in its simplicity. It's a great dish for any occasion, whether you're serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck. Plus, it’s versatile—you can use different types of pasta, experiment with various cheeses, or even add some vegetables for a twist on the original recipe.

The combination of tangy marinara, savory meatballs, and gooey cheese is a surefire winner, making every bite satisfying. Pennsylvania home cooks appreciate recipes like this one that offer both flavor and convenience, allowing more time to relax and enjoy meals with loved ones.

So the next time you’re craving comfort food with minimal effort, give this Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole a try. It's a true Pennsylvania-style dish, filled with hearty flavors that will leave everyone at the table smiling.

The Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is an ideal comfort dish, especially for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal prep. This recipe is a favorite in many homes due to its simplicity: you don’t need to boil pasta or brown meatballs. Just mix everything together and let the oven do the work! The combination of juicy meatballs, pasta, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella creates a perfectly baked casserole that's hard to resist.

Key Steps to Make the Dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a high-sided ovenproof dish, combine defrosted meatballs, marinara sauce, water, and uncooked bowtie pasta. Add Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
3. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
4. Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing it to settle and making it easier to dish out.

This recipe shines due to its ease and versatility. You can adjust the pasta shape or add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a nutritional boost. It’s also a great make-ahead or freezer-friendly meal​(The Seasoned Mom)​(12 Tomatoes).

Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap in a spicier sauce​(Front Range Fed). And for a full meal, serve with a side salad and garlic bread.

This casserole is perfect for gatherings, meal prepping, or simply indulging in some delicious comfort food!

Sources:

• The Seasoned Mom
• 12 Tomatoes
• Sweet Pea's Kitchen