Pin It A hearty, one-pan Italian dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with pasta and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
I first made this when my kids wanted something cozy but special for a weeknight meal. Every time I bring this skillet to the table, smiles all around because it reminds me of childhood Italian nights at my grandmother's house.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 400 g (14 oz), forms the base for tender meatballs
- Breadcrumbs: 50 g (1/2 cup), add light texture
- Egg: 1 large, binds the meatballs
- Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp grated, adds savory flavor
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for extra aroma
- Parsley: 2 tbsp fresh chopped (or 1 tbsp dried), herbaceous notes
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, balances flavors
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp, a touch of spice
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp, for browning and sautéing
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Bell pepper: 1 diced (red or yellow), sweetness and color
- Canned crushed tomatoes: 400 g (14 oz), base for sauce
- Tomato passata or purée: 250 ml (1 cup), deepens tomato flavor
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 tsp, for classic seasoning
- Sugar: 1/2 tsp, balances acidity
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Short pasta: 250 g (9 oz), penne, rigatoni, or fusilli
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth: 500 ml (2 cups), helps cook the pasta
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 120 g (1 cup), melted topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp, for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves: for garnish
Instructions
- Make Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape into 16 to 18 small meatballs (about 1 tablespoon each).
- Brown Meatballs:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides for about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies:
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 minutes until softened.
- Prepare Sauce:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato passata, Italian herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Pasta:
- Add the pasta and water or broth. Stir well, then nestle the meatballs into the sauce.
- Simmer:
- Cover and simmer on medium-low for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through. Add more water if needed.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the skillet. Cover and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Pin It This recipe became a Sunday favorite as our family gathered around the table, eager for warm comfort and laughter. My little one always asks for extra mozzarella on his serving!
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a full meal. It also goes well with roasted vegetables or garlic knots.
Ingredient Swaps
Try pork, turkey, or plant-based mince for a different twist. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta work perfectly for dietary needs.
Nutritional Highlights
Each serving has about 590 calories, 25 g fat, 54 g carbs, and 34 g protein, making it both filling and balanced.
Pin It Finish with fresh basil and serve hot right from the pan. Your skillet dinner will be the heart of the evening!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of meat works best for the meatballs?
Ground beef provides a classic flavor and texture, but pork, turkey, or plant-based mince can be used as alternatives to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs?
Yes, substituting gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs allows you to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing texture or flavor.
- → How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart during cooking?
Mix ground meat with breadcrumbs, egg, and cheese to bind ingredients, and avoid overhandling. Browning meatballs gently before simmering helps maintain their shape.
- → Can I add a spicy kick to this dish?
Adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the sauce preparation introduces a pleasant spiciness that complements the rich flavors.
- → What cheese is recommended for topping?
Mozzarella melts beautifully for a gooey topping, while grated Parmesan adds savory sharpness and depth to the finished skillet.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Meatballs and sauce can be made in advance and stored separately. When ready, combine with pasta and reheat gently to maintain textures and flavors.