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.
This Italian Meatball Pasta Skillet quickly became a family favorite in my house. There's something so nostalgic about the way the cheese bubbles on top and the aroma of tomato, herbs, and fresh basil fills the kitchen. It always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 400 g (14 oz)
- Breadcrumbs: 50 g (1/2 cup)
- Large egg: 1
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp (plus 2 tbsp extra for topping)
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Fresh parsley, chopped: 2 tbsp (or 1 tbsp dried)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp (divided)
- Small onion, finely chopped: 1
- Bell pepper, diced (red or yellow): 1
- 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: as needed
- 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)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: as desired
Instructions
- Mix 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 or sauté pan over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides for 5–6 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables:
- Add remaining oil to the same skillet. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 minutes until softened.
- Add tomatoes and season:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato passata, Italian herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine pasta and meatballs:
- Add the pasta and water/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.
- Cheese topping:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the skillet. Cover and cook for another 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Save Some of my favorite family moments are gathered around the dinner table ladling big spoonfuls of this skillet right from the pan. It invites everyone to share and enjoy, making the simplest evening feel special.
Recipe Variations
Add chili flakes for a spicy kick, or try mixing half beef and half pork for even juicier meatballs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
This skillet goes perfectly with a crisp green salad or a warm, crusty loaf of bread. The leftovers make a delicious lunch the next day.
Allergen & Nutrition Information
This recipe contains wheat, egg, and milk. Always check labels for potential allergens and cross-contamination. Per serving: 590 calories 25 g fat 54 g carbohydrates 34 g protein.
Save Serve this meatball pasta skillet piping hot and enjoy the gooey cheese on every forkful. It's an instant family favorite you'll want to make again and again.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I ensure meatballs stay tender?
Mix ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat. Using breadcrumbs and eggs helps bind and keep them moist.
- → Can I use different pasta types?
Yes, short pastas like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce and cook evenly in the skillet.
- → What can I substitute for beef?
Ground pork, turkey, or plant-based mince are great alternatives and work well with the tomato sauce and herbs.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?
Add water or low-sodium broth as needed while simmering to maintain a balanced sauce consistency.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to adapt the dish for gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
- → What cheese gives the best topping effect?
A mix of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan melts beautifully, creating a bubbly, flavorful crust on top.