Meatball Pasta Recipe: A One-Pot Creamy Delight
Looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dish? This Meatball Pasta Recipe combines tender mini meatballs, creamy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in a single pot.
It’s ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Say goodbye to messy clean-ups and hello to comfort food at its finest.
Why You’ll Love This Meatball Pasta Recipe
This one-pot Meatball Pasta Recipe simplifies cooking while delivering restaurant-quality flavour. Here’s why it stands out:
- Convenience: Cook the pasta in the same pot as the sauce for fewer dishes.
- Rich Flavour: A homemade tomato sauce enriched with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Versatility: Swap pasta types or use store-bought meatballs for even quicker prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:
- 450g ground beef
- 50g crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
- 3 tbsp milk
- 1 egg, whisked
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp each: Italian seasoning, salt, onion powder
For the Sauce:
- 2½ cups beef stock
- 180ml double cream
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard
- ½ chicken stock cube
- ¾ tsp each: dried oregano, basil, parsley
For the Pasta:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 240g tomato sauce
- 150g grated mozzarella
- 225g orecchiette or other pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs
- Combine meatball ingredients in a bowl. Roll the mixture into 2.5cm balls.
- Place on a greased baking tray and bake at 200°C for 15 minutes.
2. Create the Sauce
- In a large pot, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in tomato purée.
- Add the stock mixture, double cream, and tomato sauce. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Pasta
- Add pasta directly to the boiling sauce. Cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine and Serve
- Gently fold baked meatballs into the pasta. Stir in mozzarella until melted.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan.
Expert Tips for Perfect Meatball Pasta
- Choose the Right Pasta: Orecchiette, penne, or rotini work best as they hold the sauce well.
- Fresh Cheese Is Key: Grate mozzarella and Parmesan from a block for better melting and flavour.
- Customise Your Meatballs: Combine beef with pork or sausage for added richness.
- Short on Time? Use frozen meatballs baked according to package instructions.

Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQs about Meatball Pasta Recipe
What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Short pasta like orecchiette or penne is ideal as it captures the creamy sauce.
Can I use fresh mozzarella?
Avoid fresh mozzarella as it releases too much moisture. Opt for low-moisture, full-fat varieties.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap meatballs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable stock.
What side dishes go with this pasta?
Garlic bread or a fresh green salad complements this dish beautifully.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
References
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