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For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork for a more flavorful mix)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying (or you can bake the meatballs for a healthier option)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Salt, for boiling water
How to Make Penne Pasta with Meatballs
Making Penne Pasta with Meatballs is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps for a hearty and delicious meal that everyone will love.
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
Start by preparing the meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, and basil. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough. Once everything is combined, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the pan in batches, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, for about 7-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside. (Alternatively, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.)
Step 2: Make the Marinara Sauce
While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the marinara sauce. In the same skillet that you used for the meatballs, add olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Once the sauce is ready, gently return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for another 10 minutes, so they absorb the flavors and become tender.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
To serve, place a portion of the penne pasta on each plate. Spoon a generous amount of meatballs and marinara sauce over the pasta. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Top with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Penne Pasta with Meatballs
- Baking the Meatballs: If you prefer to make this dish a little lighter, bake the meatballs in the oven instead of frying them. This method is hands-off and still results in juicy, tender meatballs.
- Make it Ahead: Both the meatballs and marinara sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a day or two. This makes it easy to whip up a quick and delicious dinner after a long day.
- Meatball Variations: If you want to change things up, try mixing in some ground turkey, chicken, or veal for a different flavor. You can also make the meatballs spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Add Veggies to the Sauce: For a more nutrient-dense version, consider adding finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the marinara sauce. This adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.
- Serve with Garlic Bread: For a true Italian experience, serve your Penne Pasta with Meatballs alongside some crispy garlic bread for dipping into the rich marinara sauce.
Why Penne Pasta with Meatballs is a Timeless Classic
Penne Pasta with Meatballs is a dish that has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s hearty, comforting, and always delicious, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, the sauce is rich and aromatic, and the penne pasta ties everything together in a satisfying way.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please. Plus, it’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for leftovers, making it a winner in every sense.
Conclusion
Next time you’re in the mood for a hearty, satisfying meal, give this Penne Pasta with Meatballs a try. With tender, juicy meatballs, a rich marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a comforting dish that will bring smiles to everyone at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and incredibly rewarding. Enjoy!
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