Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsPasta Garage Italian CafeRigatoni Marinara With Mini Meatballs Recipe

Rigatoni Marinara With Mini Meatballs Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Make Rigatoni Marinara With Mini Meatballs Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Rigatoni

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mini Meatballs Preparation

  1. 2

    Make the Meatball Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

  2. 3

    Form the Meatballs

    Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  3. 4

    Cook the Meatballs

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 5

    Sauté the Garlic

    In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  2. 6

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assembly

  1. 7

    Combine and Serve

    Add the cooked meatballs to the marinara sauce and stir gently to coat. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the rigatoni pasta. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

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