Pin A hearty, one-pan Italian dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with pasta and melted cheese—perfect for a comforting family dinner.
This recipe has become a staple in my house for busy weeknights when I want something delicious but easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs: 400 g (14 oz) ground beef, 50 g (1/2 cup) breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Sauce and Pasta: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion, finely chopped, 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow), 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 250 ml (1 cup) tomato passata or purée, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, 1/2 tsp sugar, Salt and pepper, to taste, 250 g (9 oz) short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli), 500 ml (2 cups) water or low-sodium chicken broth
- For the Topping: 120 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape into 16–18 small meatballs (about 1 tablespoon each).
- Step 2:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides for 5–6 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Add remaining oil to the same skillet. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 4:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato passata, Italian herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 5:
- Add the pasta and water/broth. Stir well, then return the meatballs to the skillet nestling them into the sauce.
- Step 6:
- Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through. Add a splash more water if needed.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the skillet. Cover and cook for another 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Pin This dish always brings my family together for a warm and joyful dinner experience.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or sauté pan (with lid), Mixing bowls, Wooden spoon or spatula, Grater
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (pasta, breadcrumbs), Egg, Milk (cheese). May contain Gluten (depending on pasta/breadcrumbs used). Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens and cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 590, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 34 g per serving
Pin This Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet is the perfect comforting meal that's easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli holds sauce well and cooks evenly in the skillet.
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground pork, turkey, or plant-based mince can be used to suit dietary preferences.
- → How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?
Simmer pasta until tender but firm to the bite; it should absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
- → What enhances the sauce's flavor in this meal?
Combining crushed tomatoes, tomato purée, Italian herbs, sautéed onion and bell pepper creates a rich, balanced sauce.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten sensitivities.