Why Meatball Pasta is a Great Idea
Meatball pasta is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for a quick and tasty dinner. It’s easy to make, delicious, and satisfying, making it a great option for any night of the week. The combination of tender, juicy meatballs and al dente spaghetti, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce, is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, like diced onions and garlic, to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your meal.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make meatball pasta for 4 people:
- 400g spaghetti
- 500g ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, milk, egg, salt, and pepper until well-combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, and basil and bring to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Top with additional parmesan cheese, if desired.
Vegetarian Variation
To make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply swap out the ground beef for a meatless alternative, like soy protein crumbles, or use a mixture of cooked lentils and mushrooms. You can also add some extra veggies, like diced zucchini or bell peppers, to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Gluten-Free Variation
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the regular spaghetti for a gluten-free variety, like rice noodles or quinoa pasta. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs, or omit them altogether and use some mashed potatoes or grated zucchini to help bind the meatballs together.
Conclusion
Meatball pasta is a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. With tender, juicy meatballs and al dente spaghetti, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, with some simple variations, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences. So why not give it a try tonight?
FAQ
How many servings does the Meatball Pasta recipe make?
The Meatball Pasta recipe serves 4 people.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef for the meatballs. However, keep in mind that ground turkey has less fat than ground beef, so the meatballs may come out drier.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Spaghetti or linguine would work well with this recipe.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. Just keep in mind that fresh herbs have a more delicate flavor than dried herbs, so you may need to use more of them.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making your own. However, homemade marinara sauce will have a fresher taste and you can adjust the seasonings to your liking.
How long do I need to cook the meatballs?
The meatballs should be cooked for about 15-20 minutes or until they are browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat for the meatballs if you prefer. Ground pork, chicken or lamb would all work well.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by using meatless meatballs or omitting the meatballs altogether and adding more vegetables instead.
How long will the leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
The leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
