Meatballs with Penne Pasta in Marinara Sauce

 

Ingredients:
1 pound (450g) penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
12-15 meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meatballs (if homemade):
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Make the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into 12-15 meatballs.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta:

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:

In a separate saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat.
Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Assemble the Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a baking dish, mix the cooked penne pasta with the marinara sauce and meatballs.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for garnish.
Enjoy!