Penne Pasta with Meatballs is a beloved dish that embodies the rich flavors and comforting essence of Italian cuisine. This recipe features tender, juicy meatballs served over perfectly cooked penne pasta, all smothered in a flavorful tomato sauce. It's a satisfying meal that's perfect for family dinners, friendly gatherings, or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients: For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Preparation:
- Make the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small balls.
- Brown the Meatballs: In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Cook the onion and garlic until soft. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
- Serve: Toss the cooked penne with the meatball sauce. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Tips:
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs.
- Let the sauce simmer for longer to develop deeper flavors.
Prep Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information: Penne Pasta with Meatballs is a protein-rich dish. It also contains carbohydrates from the pasta and is moderately high in calories, especially when served with cheese.
Conclusion: Penne Pasta with Meatballs is a classic dish that combines simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful meal. It's a perfect example of how traditional Italian cooking brings comfort and joy to the dining table. Whether for a special occasion or a regular weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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