Mini Meatball Baked Penne
This pasta dish is sure to please with mini meatballs and plenty of cheese.
Mini Meatball Baked Penne
Serves: 6
Total Time: 1 hour
1 pound penne pasta
1 pound hot or mild Italian sausage, removed from casings
1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, beaten
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, drained from liquid and chopped into 1-inch cubes
Fresh basil or parsley, garnish
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Set a large pot of salted water over high heat; bring to a boil. Cook pasta 6 minutes; drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. To make meatballs, mix sausage, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan and egg; form into small, 1-ounce balls (about 1 inch in size). In a large skillet, sear meatballs 5 minutes each side or until golden and cooked through; set aside to cool on a plate lined with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, mix marinara sauce and ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy; toss in pasta. Add meatballs and mozzarella; mix. Pour into a shallow 9 x 13 baking dish; top with remaining Parmesan.
4. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with basil or parsley.
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