Perfect Pasta with Meatballs

Keyword: Perfect Pasta with Meatballs

Cooking a hearty and delicious pasta dish doesn't have to be complicated. With the right recipe, you can create a perfect pasta with meatballs that will satisfy your taste buds and feed a family of four in no time at all. This dish is not only filling but also packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for those days when you are craving something savory.

The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 50 minutes, which includes about 15 minutes for the meatballs and around 35 minutes for the pasta and sauce. The perfect pasta with meatballs serves four generous portions.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons bread crumbs
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
For the pasta:

8 ounces spaghetti or other long pasta
Water for boiling the pasta
Pasta cooking oil (optional)
For the sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh basil for garnish

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed. Shape into small balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up slightly before cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of long pasta, like spaghetti, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the meatballs. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until softened. Add the meatballs to the skillet in batches so they don't stick together, and cook them until browned on all sides. This should take around 5-7 minutes per batch.

Step 4: Make the sauce. Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet along with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Stir in some fresh basil just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving

Place the drained pasta into a large serving bowl. Top with the cooked meatballs and pour over the warm tomato sauce. Toss everything together gently so all parts get coated evenly with the tasty sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

This perfect pasta with meatballs can be served hot straight from the skillet or transferred into individual bowls for a more elegant presentation at your table. Serve it with crusty bread on the side to sop up any remaining sauce, and you have yourself an absolute meal-in-a-bowl experience!

Tips for Success

Ensure the meat mixture is cold before shaping into balls; this makes them firmer when cooked.
If making in advance, keep the cooled pasta separate from the sauce to prevent soggy strands. Reheat both components together just before serving.
To make this dish even more comforting during colder months, serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Perfect Pasta with Meatballs is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress guests, this recipe provides both versatility and delicious results. With its straightforward steps and impressive taste, it's sure to become one of your go-to dishes in the kitchen.