Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

[nverland]

Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole
Prep Time 10 minutes Cook Time 45 minutes Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package uncooked rotini pasta
1 (25 ounce) jar marinara sauce
3 cups water
1 (14 ounce) package fully-cooked miniature (cocktail-size) meatballs (if using frozen meatballs, make sure that they are completely thawed before using)
2 cups shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
Optional: Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped herbs (such as basil, oregano, and parsley for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

In a large baking dish (about 9 x 13), stir together uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and meatballs. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Uncover; stir. At this point you should check the pasta to make sure that it is al dente (firm but just about finished cooking). If it’s still too hard, cover the dish and return to the oven until pasta is al dente. Then move on to the next step.
Sprinkle mozzarella over the top and bake uncovered for 5-10 more minutes (or until cheese is melted and pasta is tender).