Comfort food at its finest. These tender, oven-baked meatballs are simmered gently in rich tomato sauce and served over silky Albesi pasta (or classic spaghetti if you prefer). Made with simple ingredients like parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that feels both rustic and indulgent — perfect for a relaxed family dinner or a cosy night in. Finished with torn basil, extra parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil, this is Italian comfort on a plate.
Serves 4
Ingredients
- 400 g ground beef
(You can also use half beef and half Italian sausage.) - 1 egg
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sprig of Parsley, chopped
- Basil, for serving
- Albesi pasta (or spaghetti as a swap option)
Method
- Mix ingredients: Place all ingredients in a large bowl and stir until well combined.
If needed, add 1 tablespoon of milk to keep the mixture moist. - Form meatballs: Scoop the mixture and roll into 1½-inch balls.
Arrange on a baking sheet. - Bake: Bake uncovered at 180°C (350°F) for 17–20 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the centre. Flip halfway through cooking.
- Simmer in sauce: Add the meatballs to Alfieri tomato sauce and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook the pasta: Cook Albesi pasta according to packet instructions until al dente.
Drain well.
Swap option: You can use spaghetti instead for a more classic pairing.
Serve: Serve the meatballs and sauce over the pasta, topped with grated parmesan, torn basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.