Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet

Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet is a comforting one-pan wonder that brings together tender meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil. This hearty Italian dish is not only simple to make but perfect for a family dinner that feels both cozy and satisfying.

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This dish balances family-friendly flavors with the convenience of cooking everything in a single skillet. The fresh basil garnish adds an aromatic, vibrant touch that elevates the hearty tomato and cheese flavors to a delightful finish.

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

1. Mix Meatball Ingredients

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).

2. Brown Meatballs

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.

3. Sauté Vegetables

Add remaining oil to the same skillet. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 minutes until softened.

4. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato passata, Italian herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

5. Add Pasta and Liquid

Add the pasta and water/broth. Stir well, then return the meatballs to the skillet nestling them into the sauce.

6. Simmer

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.

7. Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the skillet. Cover and cook for another 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using a large, deep skillet with a lid ensures the pasta cooks evenly in the sauce while the meatballs remain juicy. Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking, and add a splash of liquid if the sauce thickens too much.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can swap ground beef for pork, turkey, or plant-based mince to suit your preference. For a spicy twist, add chili flakes to the sauce. To keep it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It makes a wholesome and satisfying meal for any occasion.

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This one-pan Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet is a perfect balance of robust flavors and comforting textures, making it an effortless yet impressive meal to enjoy with family and friends. Its ease, deliciousness, and minimal cleanup make it a go-to recipe to keep in your kitchen repertoire.

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of pasta works best in this skillet?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work very well as they hold the sauce and cook evenly with the meatballs.

→ Can I substitute the beef in the meatballs?

Yes, ground pork, turkey, or plant-based mince can be used to vary the protein while maintaining texture and flavor.

→ How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Mixing breadcrumbs, egg, and cheese into the meat helps bind the meatballs, and browning them before simmering seals in their shape.

→ What is the best way to add extra flavor to the sauce?

Incorporate garlic, onion, bell pepper, and dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs makes this dish suitable for gluten-free diets without altering the core flavors.