Tomato sauce with meatballs and stuffed pasta

Tomato sauce with meatballs and stuffed pasta - A delicious recipe for unforgettable moments

Who doesn't love a warm and comforting meal that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones? This recipe for tomato sauce with meatballs and stuffed pasta is exactly what you're looking for! A perfect combination of flavors, textures, and colors that will delight any meal. Plus, it's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to individual preferences. Let's discover together the steps that will lead you to a perfect result!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe history
Tomato sauce with meatballs is a dish that has become popular in many cultures, with deep roots in traditional cuisine. Meatballs are an excellent way to use ground meat, and the tomato sauce adds a touch of freshness and acidity, perfectly balancing the taste. This recipe is ideal for a family dinner or to impress guests, being easy to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients
For the garnish:
- 1 bag of stuffed pasta (ideally stuffed with feta and spinach)
- 1 teaspoon of butter

For the meatballs:
- 500 g ground meat (pork, beef, or a combination)
- 2 eggs
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- ½ chopped onion
- 1 chopped red bell pepper
- 1 slice of bread soaked in milk
- Breadcrumbs (about 1 coffee cup)
- Chopped parsley
- Salt, pepper to taste

For the sauce:
- 300 ml homemade broth
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- Salt, pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- Chopped parsley for decoration

Step by step

1. Preparing the meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the eggs, garlic, onion, red bell pepper, the slice of bread soaked in milk, and chopped parsley. Mix the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. It is essential that the mixture is firm enough to form meatballs. If it seems too soft, gradually add breadcrumbs until you achieve the desired consistency.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh, quality meat for the best results. Meatballs can be made from pork, beef, or chicken, depending on your preferences.
- Adding spices like sweet paprika or herbs can enhance the flavor.

2. Frying the meatballs
You can fry the meatballs in oil or bake them in the oven for a healthier option. If you choose frying, heat the oil in a large pan. Forming the meatballs can be done with a spoon or with wet hands to prevent sticking. Fry the meatballs until they are golden and crispy on the outside. If baking, place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes.

3. Preparing the tomato sauce
In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat. When it becomes soft, add the flour and mix well with a whisk to avoid lumps. It is important not to let the butter melt completely or boil. Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes homogeneous. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Finalizing the sauce
When the sauce starts to boil, add the meatballs and bay leaves. Let them simmer together for about 5 minutes so that the meatballs absorb the flavors of the sauce. Finally, sprinkle with chopped parsley before turning off the heat.

5. Boiling the pasta
Meanwhile, bring the stuffed pasta to a boil in a pot of water with a little salt. Cook according to the package instructions, then drain well. Once the pasta is ready, mix it with a teaspoon of butter to prevent sticking.

Serving
On a platter or in individual plates, place the hot pasta and top with the tomato sauce and meatballs. You can garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with a green salad or a tomato salad.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use unstuffed pasta? Yes, this recipe also works with simple pasta, such as spaghetti or penne.
- What else can I add to the sauce? Oregano, basil, or even hot peppers for a spicy kick.
- Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, the meatballs freeze very well. Make sure to pack them well and label them.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also filling. Meatballs are a good source of protein, while pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy. The tomato sauce brings in vitamins and antioxidants, being a healthy ingredient.

Possible variations
- Instead of ground meat, you can use chopped vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with different types of stuffed pasta, such as those with ricotta and spinach or mushrooms.

This recipe for tomato sauce with meatballs and stuffed pasta is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will bring family and friends together. Don't forget to savor every bite and enjoy the time spent in the kitchen. Bon appétit!