One-Pot Meatball Pasta
Juicy spiced beef meatballs and pasta simmered together in one pot with a rich tomato sauce, finished with melted cheddar and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 250 g minced beef
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground red pepper
- ½ tsp minced garlic
- 2 slices stale bread soaked and drained
- 1 egg
For the Sauce & Pasta
- 1 drizzle olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- Salt to taste
- Cumin to taste
- Ground red pepper to taste
- Pasta short shape, e.g. penne or fusilli
- Hot water for cooking
- Cauliflower florets optional
To Finish
- Grated cheddar cheese
- Finely chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the minced beef, black pepper, cumin, baking soda, salt, ground red pepper, minced garlic, soaked bread, and egg until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small, even meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and lightly sear the meatballs on all sides.
- Add the tomato sauce, stir to coat, and cook for a few minutes until fragrant. Season with salt, cumin, and red pepper.
- Add the cauliflower florets, if using.
- Add the pasta and enough hot water to fully cover everything. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the pasta is tender and the water is mostly absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
Use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb as a substitute for beef. For a smoother texture, pulse the meatball mixture briefly in a food processor before shaping.