Save A hearty one-pan Italian dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with pasta and melted cheese. This comforting skillet is perfect for an easy family dinner and brings everyone together at the table.
When I first made this Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet, my family was drawn to the kitchen by the delicious aroma. It quickly became a go-to for busy nights that need a little extra comfort.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 400 g (14 oz) for tender meatballs
- Breadcrumbs: 50 g (1/2 cup) binds the meatballs
- Egg: 1 large to help form the meatballs
- Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp grated for flavor
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for depth
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped (or 1 tbsp dried) for freshness
- Salt: 1/2 tsp for seasoning
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp for mild heat
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp to cook vegetables and meatballs
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped for sweetness
- Bell pepper: 1, diced (red or yellow) for color and crunch
- Canned crushed tomatoes: 400 g (14 oz) for sauce base
- Tomato passata or purée: 250 ml (1 cup) for extra tomato flavor
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 tsp for classic seasoning
- Sugar: 1/2 tsp to balance acidity
- Salt and pepper: to taste in the sauce
- Short pasta: 250 g (9 oz) penne, rigatoni, or fusilli
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth: 500 ml (2 cups) for cooking pasta
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 120 g (1 cup) for a melty topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp for finishing
- Fresh basil leaves: for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape into 16 18 small meatballs (about 1 tablespoon each).
- Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides for 5 6 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add remaining oil to the same skillet. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 minutes until softened.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato passata, Italian herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook Pasta and Meatballs:
- Add the pasta and water or broth. Stir well, then return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Simmer:
- Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 15 18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through. Add a splash more water if needed.
- Add Cheese and Finish:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the skillet. Cover and cook for another 2 3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Save Gathering around this bubbling skillet after a busy day is a highlight in our home. It brings warmth, smiles, and lots of requests for seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet with a crisp green salad or warm crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping the beef with pork, turkey, or plant-based alternatives. Add chili flakes for some extra heat if your family loves spice.
Nutrition Info
Each serving provides roughly 590 calories, 25 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 34 g protein—making it a filling option for dinner.
Save This Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet promises a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner every time. Enjoy straight from the pan for the best experience!
Recipe FAQ
- → What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can replace ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or plant-based mince for different flavors or dietary needs.
- → How do I prevent meatballs from falling apart in the skillet?
Make sure the mixture is well combined and chill the meatballs briefly before browning to help them hold their shape.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs?
Yes, gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs work well as substitutes to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → How do I make the sauce richer?
Simmer the tomato base longer and add a splash of broth or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity and enhance depth.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the sauté step to introduce a spicy kick.
- → What cheese blends well with mozzarella for topping?
Grated Parmesan complements mozzarella beautifully, adding sharpness and depth to the melted topping.