Meatballs and Pasta Bake Recipe

A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with friends and family. This recipe combines juicy meatballs with a creamy tomato sauce and layers of pasta for a delicious and satisfying bake.  

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork (optional)
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper  
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Pasta:
  • 1 pound dried pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef (and pork, if using), bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
   • Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
2. Make the Sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble the Bake:
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with meatball sauce.
   • Pour half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • Top with meatballs.
   • Pour the remaining pasta mixture over the meatballs.
   • Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted and golden brown.
6. Serve:
   • Let the bake stand for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!