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

This classic mozzarella and meatball pasta recipe is a delightful combination of juicy meatballs, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. It's the perfect dish to satisfy those comfort food cravings and serves well as a hearty dinner for your family or a dish to share at potlucks.

Photos of Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta Recipe

Our recipe uses tagliatelle pasta, which is a traditional Italian pasta that might not be easily found in all supermarkets. It's thicker and wider compared to spaghetti and can hold up well to hearty sauces. If you cannot find it, you can substitute with fettuccine or pappardelle. For the meatballs, using a pre-made, high-quality version such as great value® homestyle meatballs simplifies the process, but feel free to make your own if you prefer.

Ingredients for the Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta

great value® homestyle meatballs: These are pre-made meatballs that can be found in the frozen food section. They are seasoned and ready to bake.

kosher salt: Used to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

tagliatelle pasta: A traditional Italian pasta, similar to fettuccine but a bit wider. It's perfect for hearty sauces.

alfredo sauce: A creamy, rich sauce that pairs well with pasta and meatballs.

mozzarella cheese: A soft, stretchy cheese that melts beautifully, adding a creamy, gooey element to the pasta dish.

One reader, Emma Hayden says:

This mozzarella and meatball pasta recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tender meatballs, creamy alfredo sauce, and gooey mozzarella creates a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. It's easy to make and tastes absolutely delicious. I highly recommend trying it out!

Emma Hayden

Essential Cooking Techniques for Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta

How to bake meatballs: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and line a baking sheet with foil. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

How to cook tagliatelle pasta: Bring 4 quarts (4 liters) of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the tagliatelle and return the water to a boil. Cook uncovered for about 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. Remove from the heat and strain.

How to heat alfredo sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the alfredo sauce to a simmer.

How to serve mozzarella and meatball pasta: Serve the cooked tagliatelle pasta with the baked meatballs, alfredo sauce, and mozzarella cheese.

How To Make Mozzarella Mountain Meatball

For this meatball pasta, big juicy pieces of meatballs are baked then served with al dente pasta and generous portions of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

32ozGreat Value® Homestyle Meatballs
kosher salt,to taste
1lbSam’s Choice® Italia Tagliatelle Egg Pasta
3cupsAlfredo 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 (4 liters) of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the tagliatelle and return the water to a boil. Cook uncovered for about 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. Remove from the heat and strain.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the alfredo sauce to a simmer.
Serve the pasta with the meatballs, sauce, and mozzarella.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1568.22kcal
Fat: 89.20g
Saturated Fat: 34.76g
Trans Fat: 2.75g
Monounsaturated Fat: 35.35g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.24g
Carbohydrates: 112.57g
Fiber: 5.44g
Sugar: 7.04g
Protein: 75.00g
Cholesterol: 332.65mg
Sodium: 2599.16mg
Calcium: 663.08mg
Potassium: 1128.67mg
Iron: 9.81mg
Vitamin A: 138.11µg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta

When preparing the meatballs, it's important to space them evenly on the baking sheet. This ensures that they cook uniformly and prevents them from sticking together. Also, for a more flavorful pasta, consider adding some of the meatball drippings into the alfredo sauce. This will give your sauce a rich, meaty flavor that pairs perfectly with the tagliatelle and mozzarella cheese.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Dish

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatballs and alfredo sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Use store-bought: Save time by using pre-made meatballs and alfredo sauce from the store instead of making them from scratch.

Multi-task: While the meatballs are baking in the oven, you can start boiling the water and cooking the pasta to save time.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a large pot to cook the pasta and warm the alfredo sauce simultaneously, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Quick melt: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella cheese to save time on grating and melting.

Substitute Ingredients For Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta Recipe

meatballs - Substitute with vegan meatballs: Vegan meatballs are a great substitute for traditional meatballs and provide a similar texture and flavor. They are made from plant-based ingredients such as lentils, mushrooms, or soy, and work well in pasta dishes.
tagliatelle egg pasta - Substitute with spaghetti squash: Spaghetti squash is a healthy and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. When cooked, the flesh of the squash can be shredded into strands resembling pasta, providing a nutritious and gluten-free option for the dish.
alfredo sauce - Substitute with cashew cream sauce: Cashew cream sauce is a dairy-free alternative to alfredo sauce, made from soaked cashews blended with garlic, nutritional yeast, and seasonings. It offers a creamy texture and rich flavor, perfect for coating pasta dishes.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with vegan mozzarella cheese: Vegan mozzarella cheese is a plant-based alternative made from ingredients like cashews, coconut oil, and tapioca starch. It melts and stretches like traditional mozzarella, making it a suitable substitute for dairy-based cheese in pasta recipes.

How to Beautifully Present Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta

Elevate the plating: When presenting the mozzarella and meatball pasta, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a large, flat plate to showcase the pasta and meatballs, and pay attention to the arrangement of the dish to create a visually stunning presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish, such as toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts, to provide a contrast in texture and elevate the overall dining experience.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant and refined serving ware to elevate the dining experience. Consider using porcelain or ceramic dishes to present the pasta and meatballs beautifully.
Focus on balance and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of the meatballs and pasta on the plate, aiming for a balanced and symmetrical presentation that showcases attention to detail and precision.
Drizzle with a balsamic reduction: Add a touch of sophistication by drizzling a balsamic reduction over the dish. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a glossy finish to the presentation.
Consider the use of edible flowers: Elevate the visual appeal of the dish by delicately placing a few edible flowers on the plate. This adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Pasta Recipe

Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal sheet used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
Foil: A thin, pliable sheet of metal, typically aluminum, used to line baking sheets and wrap food for cooking or storage.
Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, blanching, and cooking pasta, soups, and stews.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for simmering, boiling, and making sauces.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients in pots and pans.
Strainer: A perforated bowl-shaped kitchen tool used for draining liquids from cooked pasta and other foods.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Food thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of meatballs and other cooked foods.
Serving dish: A dish used for serving and presenting the prepared pasta and meatballs.
Sauce ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving and pouring sauce over the pasta and meatballs.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Meatball Pasta Leftovers

To store leftover mozzarella and meatball pasta, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat the pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring gently until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the mozzarella and meatball pasta. To do this, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen mozzarella and meatball pasta, first thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop as described above, adding a splash of water or milk if needed to help loosen the sauce.
Note: The texture of the pasta and meatballs may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the dish will still be delicious and satisfying.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Pasta and Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover mozzarella and meatball pasta to an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method helps to retain the moisture in the pasta and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover pasta in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or pasta sauce to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted.
If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat the pasta on the stovetop. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Add the leftover pasta to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method allows you to control the texture of the pasta and can help to crisp up the meatballs.
For a more flavorful twist, consider adding some fresh herbs or spices to the pasta when reheating. A sprinkle of fresh basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes can help to brighten up the flavors and make the dish taste like new again.
If you find that the pasta has dried out a bit in the refrigerator, you can add a splash of cream or milk to the dish when reheating to help restore some of the creaminess and moisture. This works particularly well when reheating the pasta in the oven or on the stovetop.

Interesting Trivia About Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta

Alfredo sauce is named after Alfredo di Lelio, an Italian restaurateur who created the dish in the early 20th century.

Budget-Friendly: Is Making This Pasta Dish at Home Cost-Effective?

This mozzarella and meatball pasta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as meatballs, pasta, and mozzarella cheese, are generally affordable and readily available. The recipe provides a hearty and satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15-20. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish offers a delightful dining experience. I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, simplicity, and delicious outcome.

Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This mozzarella and meatball pasta recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest option. The main culprits are the high-fat ingredients like meatballs, alfredo sauce, and mozzarella cheese. These ingredients are rich in saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken to make the meatballs, reducing the overall fat content
Prepare a homemade tomato-based sauce instead of using alfredo sauce, significantly cutting down on the saturated fat and calories
Incorporate a variety of vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
Use whole-grain pasta instead of regular pasta to boost the fiber intake and provide a slower release of energy
Reduce the amount of mozzarella cheese used, or choose a low-fat alternative to minimize the saturated fat content
Serve the pasta with a side salad to further increase the vegetable intake and create a more balanced meal

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Meatball Pasta Recipe

This mozzarella and meatball pasta recipe is a delightful combination of hearty meatballs, creamy alfredo sauce, and tender tagliatelle pasta. The meatballs are perfectly seasoned and baked to juicy perfection, while the alfredo sauce adds a rich and velvety texture to the dish. The addition of mozzarella cheese brings a gooey, indulgent finish. However, to elevate the flavors, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. Overall, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please the whole family.

Enhance Your Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Savory garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs, perfect for dipping in the creamy alfredo sauce.

Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze, a refreshing and light side to balance the richness of the pasta dish.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and tender roasted vegetables tossed in olive oil and Italian herbs, a healthy and flavorful addition to the meal.

Tiramisu: Indulgent layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, a classic Italian dessert to end the meal on a sweet note.

Similar Pasta Recipes to Try If You Love This Dish

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy chicken alfredo recipe is a delicious twist on the classic pasta dish. The tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce make for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These grilled vegetable skewers are a perfect addition to any summer BBQ. The colorful array of veggies, paired with a flavorful marinade, make for a healthy and delicious side dish.

Berry Cobbler: This berry cobbler recipe is a delightful way to showcase the fresh flavors of summer. The sweet and juicy berries, topped with a buttery biscuit crust, create a mouthwatering dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Combinations for This Pasta Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, warm chocolate lava cake that oozes with rich, molten chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry topping. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

Why trust this Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with homestyle meatballs and Italia tagliatelle egg pasta. The meatballs are carefully baked to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite. The creamy alfredo sauce adds a luxurious touch, while the gooey mozzarella cheese brings a delightful richness to the dish. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a satisfying and comforting meal.

Share your thoughts on the delicious Mozzarella and Meatball Pasta Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

What type of meatballs should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of meatballs you prefer, whether they are beef, pork, turkey, or even vegetarian meatballs.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. Feel free to get creative with your choice of pasta.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can use meatless meatballs or substitute the meatballs with vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also use a vegetarian alfredo sauce and skip the mozzarella cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I add other ingredients to the dish?

Of course! You can customize the dish by adding ingredients like fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. When you're ready to use them, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before adding them to the pasta dish.