Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 1 lb. ciabutin pasta
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. While the sauce is simmering, cook the ciabutin pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain the pasta in a colander.
7. Serve the pasta topped with the tomato sauce and meatballs. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for browning meatballs
- Low heat for simmering sauce
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 830mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground pork, chicken, or turkey.
- Ciabutin pasta can be substituted with any other short pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier version of the dish.
- Top the pasta with grated mozzarella cheese before serving for a cheesy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- To prevent the meatballs from sticking to the skillet, make sure the skillet is well-oiled before adding the meatballs.
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the crushed tomatoes before adding the meatballs.
- Leftover meatballs and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover meatballs and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the meatballs and sauce in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pasta and sauce in individual bowls for a cozy and comforting presentation.
- Garnish the pasta with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Serve the pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
- If the meatballs are falling apart, add more breadcrumbs to the mixture to help bind the ingredients together.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftover meatballs and sauce in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Ciabutin is a type of pasta that originated in the Piedmont region of Italy. It is similar to gnocchi, but made with flour and water instead of potatoes.
Flavor profiles:
- The tomato sauce is savory and slightly spicy, while the meatballs are tender and flavorful with a hint of Parmesan cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pasta and sauce with a glass of red wine for a classic Italian meal.
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Region: Italian