Classic Pasta and Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

1. Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1 egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
2. Cook the meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the marinara sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
4. Return the meatballs to the skillet: Add the meatballs back into the marinara sauce and cook for an additional 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Cook the pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, etc.) according to the package instructions. Drain well.
6. Serve: Plate the cooked pasta and top with the meatballs and marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Prompt:

pasta and meatballs with marinara sauce

Created:

June 16, 2024 at 08:25 PM