Print

Mini Meatball Pasta Bowls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 118 reviews

These Mini Meatball Pasta Bowls combine juicy, flavorful beef meatballs with tender penne pasta and rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works great)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • Italian seasoning to taste

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, forming a cohesive mixture ready for shaping.
  2. Form Mini Meatballs: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small 1-inch meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size to cook evenly.
  3. Brown the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs. Cook them, turning occasionally, until they achieve a browned crust on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Simmer in Marinara Sauce: Once browned, pour in the marinara sauce and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 10 minutes to fully cook through and absorb flavors.
  5. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta well.
  6. Assemble the Pasta Bowls: Divide the cooked pasta into serving bowls. Spoon the meatballs and marinara sauce generously over the pasta.
  7. Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of the meatballs and pasta. Serve immediately while hot, allowing the cheese to melt from the residual heat.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Adding fresh basil or oregano to the sauce enhances the flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
  • Make meatballs ahead and refrigerate, simmer in sauce just before serving.
  • Leftovers store well and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: mini meatballs, pasta bowls, penne pasta, marinara sauce, Italian dinner, easy weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://leofoster.com/mini-meatball-pasta-bowls-recipe/