Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something delicious, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Dynamite Penne and Meatballs recipe is your new go-to for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that the whole family will adore. Forget takeout – homemade happiness is just a few simple steps away! This recipe delivers a burst of Italian-inspired goodness, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (you can use a blend of beef and pork for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This step helps them develop a beautiful crust. Set aside.
Preparing the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Combining Everything:
- Add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Gently stir to coat them evenly. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the delicious sauce.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the meatballs and sauce. Toss gently to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Serving:
Serve the Dynamite Penne and Meatballs immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using). Enjoy this simple yet satisfying homemade meal!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the meatballs in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella or provolone would also be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or ricotta cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more precise analysis, you can use a nutrition calculator online. This meal is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes, fitting perfectly within quick dinner ideas and easy recipes for your weekly meal planning.
This Dynamite Penne and Meatballs recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. It offers a delicious and satisfying experience without compromising on time or effort, making it a true winner in the world of homemade cooking and best recipes. Enjoy!