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One Pot Meatball Pasta

A comforting, flavorful dish featuring hearty meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with pasta, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef Feel free to use ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Helps to bind the meatballs, making them tender and flavorful.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds depth and richness to your meatballs.
  • 1 large egg Helps to keep everything together.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning A great way to ensure all the classic flavors are included.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential for elevating all the flavors.
For the Sauce and Pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing and enriching the sauce.
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth Provides the base for the pasta.
  • 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes Adds sweetness and acidity.
  • 8 ounces pasta Use your favorite type, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
  • to taste Fresh basil or parsley for garnish Adds brightness and a touch of elegance.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well incorporated, then form the mixture into meatballs, about an inch in diameter.
Cooking
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the pasta. Stir to combine, covering the pot to allow the pasta to cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
  4. Once the pasta is cooked, gently fold in the meatballs, allowing them to warm through for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly. Finish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Notes

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for Italian sausage or mix in vegetables. Serve it with garlic bread or a green salad.