Name: Easy Meatball Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 32 oz Great Value® Italian-Style Meatballs; kosher salt; 1 lb Sam's Choice® Italia Tagliatelle Egg Pasta; 3 cups marinara sauce; ½ cup Mozzarella cheese

Savor the comforting combination of pasta and meatballs with this easy meatball pasta recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish brings together Italian-style meatballs, tender tagliatelle egg pasta, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple yet delicious meal everyone will love.

Photos of Easy Meatball Pasta

When preparing this recipe, you might need to visit the supermarket for a few specific items. Make sure to get Italian-style meatballs, which are often found in the frozen food section. Tagliatelle egg pasta is another key ingredient and can typically be found in the pasta aisle. Look for mozzarella cheese in the dairy section if you don't already have some at home.

Ingredients for Easy Meatball Pasta

Italian-style meatballs: These pre-made meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs and spices for a flavorful addition to your pasta dish.

Kosher salt: A coarse-grained salt used to enhance the flavor of the pasta while cooking.

Tagliatelle egg pasta: A type of ribbon-shaped pasta made with eggs, offering a rich and tender texture.

Marinara sauce: A tomato-based sauce that provides a robust and savory flavor to the dish.

Mozzarella cheese: A soft and stretchy cheese that melts beautifully over the hot pasta and meatballs.

One reader, Deloris Estes says:

Easy meatball pasta is a delightful dish! The meatballs are flavorful, and the tagliatelle pairs perfectly with the marinara sauce. The mozzarella adds a nice touch. Simple to make and absolutely delicious!

Deloris Estes

Techniques for Making Easy Meatball Pasta

How to preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the food inside. How to line a baking sheet with foil: Tear off a piece of aluminum foil large enough to cover the baking sheet, then press it down to fit snugly. How to bake meatballs: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for the specified time or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. How to boil salted water: Fill a large pot with 4 quarts of water, add a generous amount of kosher salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. How to cook pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water, stir occasionally, and cook until tender, then strain. How to simmer marinara sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into a medium saucepan, place it over medium heat, and bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

How To Make Easy Meatball Pasta

Make your pasta dish extra special by adding these savory meatballs and using tagliatelle pasta as a backdrop that combines the wonderful mix of flavors.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

32ozGreat Value® Italian-Style Meatballs
kosher salt,to taste
1lbSam’s Choice® Italia Tagliatelle Egg Pasta
3cupsmarinara sauce
½cupmozzarella cheese,shredded

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the tagliatelle and return the water to a boil. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 9 minutes. Remove from the heat and strain.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the marinara sauce to a simmer.
Serve the pasta with the meatballs, sauce, and mozzarella.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1211.83kcal
Fat: 61.33g
Saturated Fat: 23.92g
Trans Fat: 2.76g
Monounsaturated Fat: 24.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.95g
Carbohydrates: 96.53g
Fiber: 7.31g
Sugar: 13.35g
Protein: 64.81g
Cholesterol: 289.15mg
Sodium: 1327.10mg
Calcium: 320.82mg
Potassium: 1545.04mg
Iron: 10.56mg
Vitamin A: 157.68µg
Vitamin C: 3.96mg

Helpful Technique for Making Easy Meatball Pasta

To enhance the flavor of the marinara sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine and a pinch of red pepper flakes while it simmers. This will give the sauce a deeper, more complex taste that pairs beautifully with the meatballs and tagliatelle.

Time-Saving Tips for This Recipe

Pre-cook meatballs: Use pre-cooked Italian-style meatballs to save time on baking.

Boil water early: Start boiling water for tagliatelle egg pasta while preheating the oven.

Simmer sauce ahead: Heat the marinara sauce while the pasta cooks to streamline the process.

Use one pot: Cook the pasta and heat the sauce in the same pot to reduce cleanup.

Shred cheese in advance: Pre-shred the mozzarella cheese to save time during assembly.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Meatball Pasta

great value® italian-style meatballs - Substitute with ground turkey meatballs: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned similarly to Italian-style meatballs.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor profile.
sam's choice® italia tagliatelle egg pasta - Substitute with fettuccine: Fettuccine has a similar texture and thickness to tagliatelle, making it a suitable replacement.
marinara sauce - Substitute with tomato basil sauce: Tomato basil sauce offers a similar tomato base with added basil for extra flavor.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone melts well and has a mild flavor that complements pasta dishes.

Presentation Tips for Meatball Pasta

Use a large white plate: The clean, minimalist look of a large white plate will make the colors of the tagliatelle, meatballs, and marinara sauce pop, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Create a pasta nest: Twirl the tagliatelle into a neat nest in the center of the plate. This adds height and structure to the dish, making it look more sophisticated.
Place meatballs strategically: Arrange three meatballs around the pasta nest in a triangular formation. This creates balance and symmetry on the plate.
Drizzle the marinara sauce: Lightly drizzle the marinara sauce over the tagliatelle and meatballs, allowing some of the pasta to remain visible. This technique adds a touch of elegance and ensures the sauce doesn't overwhelm the dish.
Add a cheese garnish: Sprinkle finely grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the meatballs and tagliatelle. Use a microplane grater to achieve a light, airy texture that melts beautifully.
Finish with fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The vibrant green color adds a fresh contrast to the rich red sauce and golden pasta.
Serve with a side of garlic bread: Place a small piece of toasted garlic bread on the side of the plate. This not only complements the dish but also adds an extra element of texture and flavor.
Use a sauce brush: For a professional touch, use a sauce brush to create a swipe of marinara sauce on the plate before placing the pasta and meatballs. This adds an artistic flair to the presentation.
Add a touch of olive oil: Drizzle a few drops of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish. This adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavors.
Serve immediately: Ensure the dish is served hot to maintain the integrity of the pasta and meatballs. The warmth will also help the mozzarella cheese melt perfectly.

Essential Tools for Making Meatball Pasta

Oven: Used to bake the meatballs until they reach the desired internal temperature.
Baking sheet: Lined with foil to hold the meatballs while they bake in the oven.
Aluminum foil: Used to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
Large pot: Used to boil water for cooking the tagliatelle pasta.
Medium saucepan: Used to heat the marinara sauce to a simmer.
Strainer: Used to drain the cooked pasta after boiling.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Tongs: Useful for handling the cooked meatballs and mixing the pasta with the sauce.
Serving spoon: Used to serve the pasta, meatballs, and sauce onto plates.
Thermometer: Used to check the internal temperature of the meatballs to ensure they are fully cooked.

Storing and Freezing Meatball Pasta

Allow the meatball pasta to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and causing the pasta to become soggy.
For short-term storage, place the cooled meatball pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, add a splash of water or marinara sauce to the pasta to help restore moisture.
To freeze the meatball pasta:
1. Divide the cooled pasta and meatballs into individual serving-sized portions.
2. Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
3. Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
4. Freeze the meatball pasta for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen meatball pasta:
1. Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Place the thawed pasta and meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or marinara sauce to help restore moisture.
3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
4. Microwave on high power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the pasta and meatballs are heated through.
5. Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed pasta and meatballs in a covered saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If you have extra mozzarella cheese, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.

How To Reheat Meatball Pasta Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover meatballs and pasta in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the food is heated through. This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover easy meatball pasta in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or marinara sauce to keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the food is heated to your desired temperature.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the meatballs and pasta separately on the stovetop. Place the meatballs in a covered saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through, then drain the water.
For a crispy twist, place the leftover meatballs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and heated through. Reheat the pasta separately using one of the methods mentioned above, then serve the crispy meatballs over the hot pasta.
If you have a lot of leftover sauce, you can create a makeshift meatball pasta bake. Place the meatballs and pasta in an oven-safe dish, pour the extra sauce over the top, and sprinkle with some additional mozzarella cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the food is heated through.

Interesting Fact About Meatball Pasta

A fun fact about this recipe is that tagliatelle is a traditional type of pasta from the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions of Italy. It is often served with rich sauces like marinara or Bolognese.

Is Making Meatball Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy meatball pasta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The great value® italian-style meatballs and sam's choice® italia tagliatelle egg pasta are budget-friendly options, and marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese are affordable staples. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Meatball Pasta Recipe Healthy?

The easy meatball pasta recipe, while convenient and tasty, may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The meatballs are likely high in saturated fat and sodium, especially if they are pre-packaged and not made with lean meat.
The pasta, being an egg-based tagliatelle, is higher in cholesterol compared to regular pasta.
The marinara sauce may contain added sugars and preservatives, depending on the brand and ingredients used.
The mozzarella cheese adds additional saturated fat and calories to the dish.

However, this recipe can be easily modified to make it a more balanced and nutritious meal:

Opt for whole wheat or vegetable-based pasta to increase fiber content and nutritional value.
Choose lean ground meat (such as turkey or chicken) for the meatballs, or consider using plant-based alternatives like lentil or quinoa meatballs.
Prepare a homemade marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices to control the amount of added sugars and salt.
Use a reduced-fat mozzarella cheese or sprinkle a smaller amount of regular mozzarella on top.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient content and add more flavor and texture to the meal.
Serve the pasta with a side salad to increase your intake of fresh vegetables and create a more balanced plate.

By making these adjustments, you can transform this easy meatball pasta into a healthier and more satisfying meal that still retains its delicious taste and comfort food appeal.

Editor's Opinion on This Meatball Pasta Dish

This recipe offers a straightforward approach to a classic comfort dish. Using pre-made Italian-style meatballs and marinara sauce simplifies the process, making it accessible for busy cooks. The choice of tagliatelle egg pasta adds a rich, authentic touch. Baking the meatballs ensures they are cooked evenly, while simmering the marinara sauce enhances its flavors. Topping with mozzarella cheese provides a creamy finish. Overall, it's a convenient yet satisfying meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Enhance Your Easy Meatball Pasta with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Garlic Bread: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, infused with the rich scent of garlic and butter. This crispy delight will perfectly complement your meatball pasta, adding a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor with every bite.

Caesar Salad: Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing. The parmesan cheese shavings add a touch of elegance, making it a light yet satisfying companion to your hearty main course.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Vegetables: Picture a medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, all roasted to perfection. The caramelized edges and tender insides will bring a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of your pasta and meatballs.

Caprese Salad: Caprese Salad: Envision a plate adorned with slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves. Drizzled with a touch of balsamic glaze, this vibrant dish offers a refreshing and colorful addition to your meal.

Minestrone Soup: Minestrone Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of minestrone soup brimming with vegetables, beans, and pasta. This hearty soup can serve as a delightful starter, setting the stage for the flavors of your meatball pasta.

Similar Recipes to Easy Meatball Pasta

Spaghetti And Meatballs: Dive into a classic Italian-American dish with spaghetti and meatballs. This hearty meal combines tender pasta with juicy, flavorful meatballs, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce. Top it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Indulge in the creamy goodness of chicken alfredo pasta. This dish features succulent pieces of chicken breast tossed with fettuccine in a luscious alfredo sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dash of black pepper for an extra burst of flavor.

Baked Ziti: Savor the comforting flavors of baked ziti. This casserole-style dish layers ziti pasta with a rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella. Bake until bubbly and golden for a meal that’s sure to please.

Pasta Primavera: Celebrate the freshness of vegetables with pasta primavera. This vibrant dish combines penne pasta with a medley of seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce, it’s a delightful, healthy option.

Shrimp Scampi: Treat yourself to the elegant flavors of shrimp scampi. This dish features succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine. Serve over a bed of linguine and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing finish.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Meatball Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Begin by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. Create a savory filling using cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Add a touch of parmesan for a rich, nutty flavor. Bake until golden and bubbly, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with Bruschetta. Start with slices of crusty baguette, toasted to perfection. Top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Finish with a pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for a simple yet elegant appetizer.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in the rich layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese. This classic Italian dessert is elevated with a dusting of cocoa powder and a hint of coffee liqueur. Perfect for a sophisticated end to your meal, this treat combines the bold flavors of coffee and chocolate in a delightful, creamy texture.

Panna Cotta: Experience the silky smoothness of vanilla-infused cream in this elegant dessert. The creamy base is complemented by a tangy fruit compote, such as raspberry or mango, adding a burst of freshness. This dessert is not only visually stunning but also a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it an ideal choice for a light yet indulgent finish to your meal.

Why trust this Easy Meatball Pasta:

This recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. Using great value® italian-style meatballs ensures consistent quality, while sam's choice® italia tagliatelle egg pasta offers authentic Italian taste. The marinara sauce adds a rich, savory element, and the mozzarella cheese provides a creamy finish. With easy-to-follow steps and minimal prep time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights. Trust this recipe for a delicious, hassle-free meal that the whole family will love.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can swap the tagliatelle for any pasta you like. Spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine would all work great with this recipe.

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of store-bought?

Yes, you can definitely use homemade meatballs. Just make sure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can make this dish vegetarian by using plant-based meatballs instead of the Italian-style meatballs. There are plenty of great options available in stores.

Can I add other ingredients to the marinara sauce?

Of course! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the marinara sauce. You can also add some extra spices or herbs to enhance the flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.