Print

One Pan Meatballs and Pasta Skillet Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 9 reviews

This One Pan Meatballs and Pasta Skillet is a hearty and flavorful meal combining tender homemade meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with perfectly cooked pasta—all made in a single skillet for easy cleanup. Featuring classic Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a comforting weeknight dinner that comes together in just 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground chicken or ground turkey)
  • 1/3 cup white onion, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Skillet Sauce and Pasta

  • 1/2 cup onion, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1.5 cups small pasta (elbow, ditalini, or orzo recommended)
  • 2 cups beef broth (or chicken stock)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning meatballs)

Instructions

  1. Make the Meatballs: In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, minced white onion, egg, minced garlic, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and shape into 1-inch meatballs. If using premade meatballs, skip this step.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage since they will continue cooking in the sauce.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Add Tomatoes: Once meatballs are browned, add the minced onion and chopped garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice and the crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce). Stir in dried basil, oregano, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Cook Pasta in Sauce: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the skillet with the meatballs and sauce. Stir to combine and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
  5. Serve: Sprinkle the skillet generously with shredded Parmesan cheese before serving. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple salad and a crusty baguette if desired.

Notes

  • Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or orzo work best for this one-pan recipe as they cook evenly in the sauce.
  • You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef to lighten the dish.
  • If you want to speed up the process, use premade frozen meatballs instead of making your own.
  • Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish and extra flavor.
  • Keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks to avoid sticking or burning; add a splash of extra broth or water if needed.

Find it online: http://bitezly.com/one-pan-meatballs-and-pasta-skillet-recipe/