Meatball Pasta

Introduction

When it comes to classic comfort food, nothing beats a hearty plate of Meatball Pasta. Juicy, flavorful meatballs nestled in a rich, savory tomato sauce and served over al dente pasta—it’s a meal that satisfies the soul and delights the taste buds. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even entertaining guests, this dish is easy to make yet always impresses. Let’s dive into how you can create this timeless favorite at home.

Why You Will Love It

There’s so much to love about this Meatball Pasta recipe:

• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this hearty and satisfying meal.
• Customizable: Use your favorite pasta and tweak the meatball ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of tender meatballs and a savory tomato sauce is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Great for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.

Ingredients To Make Meatball Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Meatball Pasta recipe:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground Beef or Pork: 1 lb (or use a mix of both for extra flavor).
• Breadcrumbs: ½ cup (regular or panko).
• Egg: 1 large, to bind the meatballs.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated, for a rich flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon, for a herbaceous kick.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (optional).

For the Tomato Sauce:

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing.
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz), for a rich base.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons, to deepen the flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon.
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

For the Pasta:

• Pasta of Choice: 12 oz (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite).
• Parmesan Cheese: For serving.
• Fresh Basil: For garnish (optional).

How To Make Meatball Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
   • Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the meatballs and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened.
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
   • Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine the Meatballs and Sauce:
   • Return the meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are fully cooked and infused with the sauce.
5. Cook the Pasta:
   • While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Assemble and Serve:
   • Toss the cooked pasta with a ladle of the sauce or serve the pasta topped with the sauce and meatballs. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy!

Pro Tips For Making Meatball Pasta

• Don’t Overmix the Meatballs: Overmixing can make the meatballs dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Chill the Meatballs: Let the rolled meatballs rest in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil elevate the flavor of the dish.
• Add a Splash of Pasta Water: If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the starchy pasta cooking water to loosen it.
• Double the Batch: Meatballs freeze well, so make extra and store them for a quick meal later.

What To Serve With Meatball Pasta

This classic dish is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy salad complements the hearty pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus make excellent side dishes.
• Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully with the dish.

Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Meatball Pasta (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	550-600
Protein	30-35g
Carbohydrates	50-55g
Fat	20-25g
Fiber	5-6g

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Essential Kitchen Tools For This Recipe

To prepare this dish seamlessly, you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowl: For preparing the meatball mixture.
• Large Skillet: To cook the meatballs and sauce.
• Pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: For turning the meatballs and tossing the pasta.
• Grater: For freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Crab Brulee Recipe
• Yogurt Fruit Dip
• Chocolate Dipped Fruit
• Cool Whip Fruit Dip
• Peach Cobbler Egg Rolls
• Gluten Free Peach Cobbler Recipe
• Baked Feta Pasta With Chicken
• Egg Muffins

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes! Pre-made meatballs can save time. Just cook them in the sauce to infuse flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

4. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Spaghetti is the classic choice, but penne, rigatoni, or linguine also work well.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Recipe Cards

Conclusion

Meatball Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into a dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a staple for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you’re craving something cozy and delicious.