Looking for a hearty and delicious dinner that's quick, simple, and cleanup-friendly? Meet your new go-to meal: One-Pot Meatball Pasta. It’s packed with savory flavors, requires minimal effort, and, best of all, cooks everything in just one pot!
If you're a busy parent or someone who loves a quick dinner solution without sacrificing flavor, this recipe is for you.
This all-in-one meal seamlessly combines tender meatballs, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, tomatoey sauce. Bookmark this recipe for crowded weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you're in a "what’s for dinner?" pinch.
Why One-Pot Meatball Pasta is Your New Dinner Hero
When it comes to weeknight dinners, convenience is king. Here’s why this recipe is a game-changer:
- One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple dirty pans. With this recipe, everything cooks in a single pot, saving you time and effort on cleanup.
- Quick Cooking: Dinner hits the table in under 30 minutes.
- Kid-Approved Comfort Food: Meatballs and pasta are a classic combo that even picky eaters can’t resist.
- Versatile Recipe: Swap pasta types or experiment with seasonings to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 12 oz dried pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil and grated Parmesan (for garnish)
How to Make One-Pot Meatball Pasta
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- Combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Gently mix with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatballs dense.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter).
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large, deep pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 5-6 minutes. They don’t need to cook through completely at this stage. Remove meatballs from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same pot (because, remember, we’re sticking to one pot!), add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the marinara sauce and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add the dried pasta. Stir to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in sauce.
Step 5: Simmer with the Meatballs
Nestle the browned meatballs back into the pot with the pasta. Cover and reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing everything to simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the meatballs are fully cooked.
Step 6 (Optional): Add Creaminess
For a creamier sauce, stir in the heavy cream during the final 2 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Top your pasta with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Serve hot and watch as this dish disappears in minutes!
Tips for Perfect One-Pot Meatball Pasta
- Meatball Shortcut: Short on time? Use pre-made frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch. Just skip the browning step and add them directly to the pot to cook with the pasta.
- Customize Your Pasta: Can’t find the right shape? Small, sturdy pastas like shells or rotini also work perfectly in this recipe.
- Go Vegetarian: Swap out the meatballs for plant-based alternatives or roasted vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant chunks are great additions.
- Freezer Friendly: This recipe freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-pot meatball pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s a solution. It’s a way to feed your family well without sacrificing your precious time or energy. Imagine sitting down at the table, a comforting bowl of pasta in hand, knowing that cleanup will be a breeze. Plus, with this recipe’s versatility, you’ll never run out of delicious variations to try.
Take It to the Next Level
Want to elevate your pasta nights and learn new twists on one-pot meals? Subscribe to our free newsletter for more quick, hearty dinner ideas that busy families will love. Or share your version of this recipe on social media using #OnePotWonders—we’d love to see your creations!
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