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Skillet Baked Meatball Parmesan Pasta

This Skillet Baked Meatball Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, cheesy one-pan meal bursting with savory meatballs and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef lean
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian seasoned
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley fresh
  • 1 egg for binding the meatballs
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 8 ounces pasta penne or rotini
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined without overworking.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Shape the meat mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
  • Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Cook Pasta and Bake

  • Pour marinara sauce into the same skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the sauce, stirring to coat. Ensure pasta is mostly submerged, adding a splash of water if needed.
  • Place the browned meatballs back into the skillet on top of the pasta and sauce mixture. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over everything. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil.
  • Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until pasta is al dente and cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy.

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • For a twist, add fresh vegetables like peas or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Ground turkey or lamb can be used instead of beef for different flavors.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat covered in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of sauce if dry.
  • Try adding a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce for extra depth of flavor.