Stuffed Saucy Meatballs and Pasta

Italian Stuffed Saucy Meatballs and Pasta Recipe with Mozzarella and Oregano

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: : 4

Introduction

Stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender meatballs filled with gooey cheese, smothered in a spicy pasta sauce, and served over hot linguine. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

The origins of stuffed meatballs can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where they are known as "polpette ripiene." This dish has been a favorite in Italian households for generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe. The addition of cheese inside the meatballs adds a rich and creamy element to the dish, making it a popular choice for those looking for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of lean ground beef
2 eggs, slightly beaten
0.5 cup of seasoned bread crumbs
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tbsp of finely chopped fresh oregano
1 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of pepper
12 small balls of fresh mozzarella cheese (about 0.33 oz (9 g) each)
1 jar (25 – 26 oz (737 g)) of spicy red pepper pasta sauce or other pasta sauce
1 tbsp of finely chopped fresh oregano [1]
hot cooked spaghetti rigati or linguine
fresh oregano sprigs (optional)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, bread crumbs, garlic, 1 tbsp chopped oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix lightly but thoroughly.
Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions.
Lightly shape each portion into a patty.
Place 1 mozzarella ball in the center of each patty.
Shape the beef around the cheese, completely enclosing it to form meatballs.
Arrange the meatballs on a baking pan lined with aluminum foil, measuring 15 x 10 inches.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meatballs reach medium doneness (160°F (71°C)). They should no longer be pink in the center and the juices should show no pink color.
Meanwhile, heat the pasta sauce in a large saucepan until hot, stirring occasionally.
Add the meatballs to the sauce and cook until heated through, approximately 5 minutes.
Spoon the meatballs and sauce over pasta.
Sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped oregano.
Garnish with oregano sprigs, if desired.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of this dish.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
Add chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the pasta sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mix the meatball mixture lightly but thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

- Make sure to completely enclose the cheese inside the meatballs to prevent it from oozing out during cooking.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

- Garnish the dish with fresh oregano sprigs for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the meatballs in the oven ensures that they cook evenly and retain their shape. Cooking them in the pasta sauce at the end allows the flavors to meld together for a delicious and saucy dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh oregano, you can use dried oregano instead. You can also use store-bought meatballs instead of making them from scratch.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You can also make the pasta sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta in a large serving dish, garnished with fresh oregano sprigs for a beautiful presentation. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, for a classic Italian meal experience. A side of crusty bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar is also a great accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta contains approximately 450 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta contains approximately 35 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (bread crumbs).

Summary

Stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a satisfying dinner.

Summary

Stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With gooey cheese-filled meatballs, spicy pasta sauce, and hot linguine, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Stuffed Saucy Meatballs and Pasta. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished helping my aunt harvest tomatoes from her garden. As a thank you for my hard work, she invited me inside for a refreshing glass of lemonade. As we sat at her kitchen table, she began to tell me about a new recipe she had recently tried - stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta.

Her eyes lit up as she described the dish, filled with savory meatballs stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, smothered in a rich tomato sauce, and served over a bed of al dente pasta. My mouth watered just thinking about it, and I knew I had to learn how to make it for myself.

My aunt graciously shared the recipe with me, detailing each step and ingredient with precision. She had learned the recipe from an Italian friend of hers who had passed it down through generations. As she spoke, I could see the passion and love she had for cooking reflected in her eyes.

After jotting down the recipe in my trusty notebook, I headed home to try my hand at making the stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta. I gathered all the ingredients, from ground beef and breadcrumbs to fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. The kitchen was filled with the warm aroma of garlic and herbs as I cooked, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as I crafted each meatball with care.

As the dish simmered on the stove, the anticipation grew. Finally, it was time to plate up the stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta. The meatballs were perfectly browned and oozing with melted cheese, the sauce thick and rich with flavor. I twirled my fork around a mound of pasta, taking a bite that transported me straight to Italy.

From that moment on, stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any chance I had to share my love for cooking with others. Each time I made the dish, I would think back to that hot summer day in my aunt's kitchen, where I first learned the recipe that would become a beloved tradition in my own home.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own flair and personal touch to make it truly my own. But the essence of the dish remains the same - a comforting and delicious meal that brings people together around the dinner table.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the memories I have created with this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey that led me to discover stuffed saucy meatballs and pasta. It is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, connecting me to my family, friends, and the rich history of home-cooked meals that have brought joy and comfort to so many. And for that, I am truly grateful.