Craving a comforting, delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Penne Pasta and Meatballs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. Forget takeout – homemade goodness is just a few simple steps away! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and easy recipes.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 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 salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb penne pasta
Instructions:
Making the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, 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 heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then set aside.
Preparing the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Cooking the Pasta:
- While the meatballs simmer, cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the meatballs and sauce. Toss to combine.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad for a complete and delicious meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option.
- Add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- For a richer sauce, use a combination of crushed tomatoes and tomato puree.
- If you're short on time, use pre-made meatballs. Just be sure to brown them lightly in the pan before adding them to the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This easy recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cooking and elevate your quick dinner ideas with this classic dish. The best recipes often involve simple ingredients and straightforward methods, and this penne pasta and meatballs recipe is a testament to that. It’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort!