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Meatball Pasta Gratin with Tomato and Basil

Meatball Pasta Gratin with Tomato and Basil
There’s something comforting about this pasta gratin—the way the meatballs soak up that tangy tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese and a bright pop of fresh basil. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the first bite onward, whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or cozying up alone. The contrast between the creamy base and savory meat makes every forkful feel special, yet it stays down-to-earth enough for a weeknight win. Perfect for when you crave comfort without the fuss.
Ingredients
  • 500g (17.6 oz) ground meat
  • 400g (14.1 oz) meatballs
  • 400g (14.1 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 280g (9.9 oz) dried pasta
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 2 medium yellow onions
  • 2 vegetable bouillon cubes
  • 3 tbsp (45 ml or 1.76 oz) tomato puree
  • 1 tsp (5 ml or 0.25 oz) dried oregano
  • 1 tsp (5 ml or 0.25 oz) dried basil
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml or 0.25 oz) granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml or 0.25 oz) chili flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C or 375°F.

2. Cook the dried pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente, then drain and set it aside.

3. In a large skillet, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic over medium heat until they're softened.

4. Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

5. Stir in the tomato puree, salt, black pepper, and vegetable bouillon cubes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

6. Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, and chili flakes if you're using them. Mix everything together until it's well combined.

8. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top it with the meatballs.

9. Bake the gratin in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the meatballs are cooked through.

10. Remove the dish from the oven and garnish it with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tools
  • mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • baking dish
  • spoon
  • oven

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