Save 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 skillet on a chilly weeknight and was amazed how everyone went for seconds. The irresistible blend of flavors and melty cheese quickly turned it into a requested favorite at our table.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 400 g (14 oz)
- Breadcrumbs: 50 g (1/2 cup)
- Large egg: 1
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
- Fresh parsley (chopped or dried): 2 tbsp fresh or 1 tbsp dried
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Onion (finely chopped): 1 small
- Bell pepper (diced): 1 (red or yellow)
- Canned crushed tomatoes: 400 g (14 oz)
- Tomato passata or purée: 250 ml (1 cup)
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 tsp
- Sugar: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Short pasta (penne, rigatoni or fusilli): 250 g (9 oz)
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 120 g (1 cup)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make meatballs:
- Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. 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 5 to 6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 minutes until softened.
- Simmer sauce:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato passata, Italian herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add pasta and meatballs:
- Add pasta and water or broth. Stir well. Return meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Cook covered:
- Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through. Add a splash more water if needed.
- Add cheese topping:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the skillet. Cover and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot from the skillet.
Save This skillet always brings everyone together around the table with laughter and seconds. Even picky eaters scoop up the cheesy pasta and savory meatballs.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet (with lid), mixing bowls, wooden spoon, and a grater for cheese. Having a sturdy pan makes all the difference for easy simmering and serving straight from skillet to plate.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat, egg, and milk. If using alternative pastas or breadcrumbs, double-check for traces of gluten or cross-contamination before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving gives you about 590 calories, 25 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 34 g protein: hearty enough to keep you full and satisfied.
Save Once you try this skillet, it will quickly become a staple for easy family nights: especially when you crave comfort with plenty of flavor.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use different types of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, ground pork, turkey, or plant-based mince work well as alternatives, offering varied flavors and textures.
- → What pasta shapes are best for this skillet dish?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli hold the sauce and meatballs nicely, ensuring balanced bites.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options for a safe and tasty variant.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to the sauce?
Certainly! Diced bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms can enhance the texture and flavor profile.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and flavors develop further when rested overnight, making it convenient for meal prep.