Easy Meatball Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s a complete meal in one bowl—protein-packed meatballs, a savory tomato sauce, and satisfying pasta. It’s also versatile: you can make it with homemade or store-bought meatballs, and it pairs well with any type of pasta. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers are just as delicious the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or a mix of beef

• Breadcrumbs

• Egg

• Garlic (minced)

• Onion (finely chopped)

• Fresh parsley (chopped)

• Salt and pepper

• Olive oil

• Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite type)

• Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• Parmesan cheese (for serving)

• Optional: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1–1.5 inches in diameter.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add tomato sauce and season with Italian herbs or red pepper flakes if desired. Simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Return the meatballs to the sauce and simmer gently until fully cooked, about 10–12 minutes.

6. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

7. Serve the pasta topped with meatballs and sauce, and garnish with Parmesan and fresh basil.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and cooking takes around 30 minutes. Total time: approximately 50 minutes.

Variations

• Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

• Swap traditional pasta for whole wheat, gluten-free, or zucchini noodles.

• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition.

• Try a creamy tomato sauce by stirring in a splash of heavy cream.

• Use frozen pre-cooked meatballs for an even quicker version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze cooked meatballs and sauce (without pasta) for up to 3 months. Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes, store-bought meatballs work well for this recipe and save time.

What pasta works best with meatballs?

Spaghetti is classic, but penne, rigatoni, or fusilli also hold the sauce nicely.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until fully cooked.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg as binders, and don’t overmix the meat mixture.

Can I make the sauce from scratch?

Absolutely. Use canned tomatoes, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning to create a homemade sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild in flavor and usually a big hit with kids.

Can I use fresh herbs?

Yes, fresh basil, oregano, or parsley add excellent flavor when added just before serving.

How many calories are in a serving?

On average, one serving is about 400–500 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Conclusion

This easy meatball pasta recipe is a timeless classic that’s both hearty and simple to prepare. With juicy meatballs, a flavorful tomato sauce, and your favorite pasta, it’s a meal that everyone at the table will love. Make it for a weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering, and enjoy a comforting dish that never disappoints.

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