Sink your fork into the tender, savory meatballs nestled among a bed of perfectly cooked egg noodles, and you’ll understand why this dish has stood the test of time. Meatballs and egg noodles is a classic comfort food that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and warm, homemade meals. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can recreate this timeless dish in your own kitchen, filling your home with the mouthwatering aroma of simmering tomato sauce and browning meatballs.
Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic taste of childhood or simply craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. The secret to these meatballs lies in the perfect blend of ground beef, savory herbs, and a touch of parmesan, creating a flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing. And the egg noodles? They’re the perfect canvas, soaking up every last drop of that rich, tomato-based sauce. Get ready to experience a mealtime masterpiece that will have your family clamoring for seconds.
So, let’s dive in and discover why this recipe works every single time, shall we?
🍝 Why This Recipe Works Every Single Time?
The secret to this meatballs and egg noodles recipe lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The meatballs are tender and juicy, thanks to the combination of ground beef and a touch of breadcrumbs, which helps keep them moist and delicious. The herbs and spices infuse the meatballs with an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor, while the parmesan cheese adds a savory richness that truly sets them apart.
But the real star of the show is the classic egg noodles. Cooked to al dente perfection, they provide the perfect base for the saucy meatballs, soaking up every drop of the rich, tomato-based sauce. The combination of the tender meatballs, the toothsome noodles, and the flavorful sauce creates a harmonious melody of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more with every bite.
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 (24 oz) jar of your favorite marinara sauce
• 12 oz egg noodles
The key ingredients in this recipe are the ground beef and the parmesan cheese. The ground beef provides the perfect base for the meatballs, while the parmesan adds a subtle savory note that enhances the overall flavor. The breadcrumbs help to bind the meatballs together and keep them tender, while the blend of herbs and spices brings everything together in perfect harmony.
Instructions
- Mix the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can result in tough meatballs.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using a small ice cream scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing them on a clean plate or baking sheet as you go.
- Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches if necessary, carefully add the meatballs to the hot oil and cook, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- Simmer the Sauce: Once all the meatballs have been browned, pour the marinara sauce into the skillet or Dutch oven, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs cook in the sauce for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Cook the Noodles: While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically 7-10 minutes, until they’re al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside.
- Serve and Enjoy: To serve, place a portion of the egg noodles on a plate and top with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Savor every bite of this comforting and delicious dish!
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 4 servings.
• Protein: 33 g
• Sodium: 840 mg
• Carbohydrates: 49 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Fiber: 4 g
🌱 Endless Variations to Explore
• To Make it Vegan: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger. Replace the parmesan cheese with a vegan parmesan-style topping, and use a dairy-free marinara sauce.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture or stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the marinara sauce for an extra burst of heat.
🍽️ How to Serve This Dish in Style?
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, a drizzle of pesto, or a grating of parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of full-bodied red wine, such as a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or a bold Malbec. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced tea or lemonade would also complement the flavors perfectly.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: It’s important to bring all the ingredients to room temperature before assembling the meatballs. Cold ingredients can affect the overall texture and cooking time of the dish.
• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Skillet: Properly preheating the skillet or Dutch oven is crucial for getting a good sear on the meatballs, which helps lock in their juices and enhance the flavor.
🗂️ How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Like a Pro?
• Freezing: Meatballs and sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
• Reheating: To reheat the meatballs and sauce, place the desired portion in a saucepan and heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until piping hot.
❓ FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for the ground beef in this recipe. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as turkey and chicken tend to cook faster than beef. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. Once the meatballs are formed, place them on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will allow the flavors to meld and the meatballs to firm up, making them easier to handle when it’s time to cook.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover meatballs and egg noodles?
The best way to reheat this dish is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatballs and noodles in an oven-safe dish, covered with a lid or foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are warmed through and the noodles are tender. You can also reheat the dish on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While the classic pairing is with egg noodles, you can use a variety of other pasta shapes with this meatball recipe. Try it with spaghetti, penne, or even gnocchi for a delightful change of pace. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the specific pasta you choose.
How can I make the meatballs more tender?
To ensure your meatballs are extra tender, be sure to handle the meat gently when forming the balls, and avoid overmixing the ingredients. You can also try adding a small amount of milk or breadcrumbs to the mixture, which will help keep the meatballs moist and tender. Additionally, be careful not to overcook the meatballs, as this can lead to a tough, dry texture.
🍽️ From Our Stove to Your Table
As you dig into the perfectly tender meatballs and swirl the egg noodles through the rich, tomato-based sauce, we hope you’ll be transported to a cozy, family-filled kitchen, where the aroma of this timeless dish fills the air and the flavors transport you back to cherished memories. This recipe is a true labor of love, and we’re honored to share it with you, our dear reader.
So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and get ready to savor every bite of this hearty, classic meatballs and egg noodles dish. Bon appétit!
Hearty, Classic Meatballs and Egg Noodles
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can result in tough meatballs.
- Using a small ice cream scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing them on a clean plate or baking sheet as you go.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches if necessary, carefully add the meatballs to the hot oil and cook, turning occasionally, until they're browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- Once all the meatballs have been browned, pour the marinara sauce into the skillet or Dutch oven, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs cook in the sauce for 15-20 minutes, or until they're cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically 7-10 minutes, until they're al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside.
- To serve, place a portion of the egg noodles on a plate and top with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Savor every bite of this comforting and delicious dish!
