Penne Pasta with Meatballs is the perfect combination of hearty, tender meatballs and al dente pasta, all tossed in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is bound to please everyone at the table. Follow this detailed recipe to bring restaurant-quality Italian flavors to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, Homemade Flavor: Both the meatballs and sauce are made from scratch for unbeatable taste.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything is pantry-friendly and easy to source.
- Perfectly Paired: Penne’s tubular shape catches the sauce, making every bite flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (optional, for a smoother consistency)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- Salt, for boiling water
Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense).
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a plate.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning them to brown all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). They don’t need to cook through at this stage. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce (if using). Stir in basil, oregano, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Add the meatballs back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
Step 3: Cook the Penne Pasta
- While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and meatballs. Toss gently to coat the penne in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Tips for Success
- Meatball Variations: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before combining with pasta.
- Enhance the Sauce: Add a splash of red wine for depth, or a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Penne Pasta with Meatballs recipe combines hearty, flavorful ingredients into a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The homemade touch elevates it beyond store-bought sauces, making it a dish your family will request again and again.
Dive into a plateful of this Italian classic, and savor every bite! Buon appetito!
