Lunch & Dinner

Classic Italian-Pasta and Meatballs

Pasta and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that has become popular around the world. It typically consists of spaghetti noodles tossed in a tomato-based sauce and topped with meatballs made from ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.

There are many variations of the recipe, and some people like to add additional ingredients such as garlic, onions, and herbs to the meatballs or sauce. Some also prefer to use different types of pasta, such as penne or linguine, instead of spaghetti.

Pasta and meatballs step by step

Pasta and meatballs is a hearty and satisfying meal that is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s also a great way to use up leftover meatballs or sauce from a previous meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lb. spaghetti
  • 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, basil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 5- 7 minutes on each side, or until browned all over.
  4. While the meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente.
  5. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine.
  6. Once the meatballs are browned, add them to the pot with the spaghetti and marinara sauce. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Simmer the pasta and meatballs together for a few minutes, until the sauce is heated through and the meatballs are cooked through.
  8. Serve the pasta and meatballs hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious pasta and meatballs!