One-Pot Creamy Meatball Pasta: A Comforting Weeknight Dinner

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The Ultimate Easy Meatball Pasta Dish

Imagine a delicious, creamy pasta meal that comes together in just one pot – minimal cleanup, maximum flavor! This One-Pot Creamy Meatball Pasta is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner solution that combines tender meatballs, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxurious cream sauce.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 500g ground meat
  • 1 egg
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 60g breadcrumbs
  • 60g Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

  • 400g pasta (medium-sized)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 200ml heavy cream
  • 250ml beef broth
  • 625ml water
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and form into uniform meatballs.
  2. Brown the Meatballs Heat olive oil in a large pot. Carefully brown the meatballs on all sides, creating a nice golden crust.
  3. Create the Creamy Sauce Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Cook the Pasta Add pasta and water to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Finish and Serve Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories per serving: Approximately 520
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4-5

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Use a blend of meats for more complex flavor
  • Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning meatballs
  • Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking
  • Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Use ground turkey for a leaner option
  • Replace beef broth with vegetable broth
  • Add red pepper flakes for extra heat
  • Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs
  • Substitute cream with half-and-half or milk

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare meatballs in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Q2: How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

Q3: Can I freeze this pasta dish? Best to freeze meatballs separately. Pasta may become mushy when thawed.

Q4: What pasta works best? Medium-sized pasta like penne or rigatoni work perfectly.

Q5: How can I make it vegetarian? Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
  • Store in airtight container
  • Best consumed within 2-3 days
  • Reheat gently with additional liquid
  • Not recommended for freezing after combined

Enjoy your delicious One-Pot Creamy Meatball Pasta – a true comfort food masterpiece!