Imagine a dish that combines the heartwarming richness of perfectly seasoned meatballs, the comforting embrace of al dente pasta, and a luxuriously creamy marinara sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Italian-inspired masterpiece is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Get ready to unlock the secret to the most irresistible pasta dish that's both elegant and incredibly satisfying!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and Italian seasoning in a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Aim to create about 12-14 meatballs depending on size preference.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (about 8-10 minutes).
- While meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- In the same skillet with meatballs, pour the marinara sauce and reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream to create a creamy marinara sauce, allowing it to simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly into the skillet with meatballs and creamy marinara sauce. Gently toss to ensure pasta and meatballs are evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Plate immediately to maintain optimal temperature and sauce consistency.
Tips
- For the juiciest meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Gently combine ingredients just until incorporated to prevent tough meatballs.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach the safe internal temperature of 160°F without overcooking.
- For extra flavor, consider using a blend of ground meats like beef and pork, or add some finely minced garlic to the meatball mixture.
- If the sauce seems too thick, reserve some pasta water to help create a silkier consistency when mixing.
- To achieve perfectly al dente pasta, always cook it 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions and finish cooking in the sauce.
- Fresh basil is key to elevating the dish's flavor, so don't skip the garnish!
- For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 660kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
