A pasta bake never fails to satisfy. And this Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake recipe is perfect for a lazy weekend dinner for the family.
Yield
6-8 Servings
Prep Time
20mins
Cook Time
40mins
Difficulty Level
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A pasta bake never fails to satisfy. And this Cheesy Meatball Pasta Bake recipe is perfect for a lazy weekend dinner for the family

Ingredients

  • 500 g beef mince
  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup basil leaves, chopped, plus extra leaves to serve
  • 1 lemon, finely grated zest, 2 tbsps juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 x 400 g cans diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup beef stock or water
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 500 g penne pasta
  • 1 cup tasty cheese, grated
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
01.

Preheat oven to moderate, 180 C.

02.

In a large bowl, combine mince, breadcrumbs, onion, basil, lemon zest and juice. Season to taste. Roll tablespoons of mixture into balls.

03.

In a large frying pan, heat oil on high. Fry meatballs 3 to 4 mins, turning, until browned all over. Stir in tomatoes, stock, paste and garlic. Bring to boil. Simmer for about 4 to 5 mins, until sauce thickens slightly.

04.

Meanwhile, cook pasta following packet instructions. Drain well. Return to pan with sauce and meatball mixture.

05.

Spoon into a 4-litre casserole dish. Sprinkle over combined cheeses.

06.

Bake 25 to 30 mins until golden and bubbling. Sprinkle with extra basil to serve. Accompany with a salad, if you like.

Photo: Bauers/John Paul Urizar

Download or print the recipe