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Easy Meatball Pasta Recipe

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This easy meatball pasta recipe is a hearty, comforting dish made with tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served over pasta. It’s a family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or preferred type)
  • 3 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
  • Optional: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper until combined.
  2. Shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1–1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add tomato sauce and season with Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Return 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 pasta topped with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with Parmesan and fresh basil.

Notes

For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes instead of pan-frying.Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/easy-meatball-pasta-recipe/