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