Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsRed Rock TavernPasta With Meatballs Recipe

Pasta With Meatballs Recipe

Inspired by Red Rock Tavern
Time45m
Serves4

Penne pasta tossed with hand-rolled meatballs and our signature marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and penne pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Meatball Preparation

  1. 2

    Mix Meatball Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined.

  2. 3

    Form Meatballs

    Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

  3. 4

    Cook Meatballs

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 5

    Make Marinara Sauce

    In the same skillet used for meatballs, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

  2. 6

    Add Fresh Basil

    Stir in chopped fresh basil into the marinara sauce just before serving.

Combining and Serving

  1. 7

    Combine Pasta and Meatballs

    In a large serving bowl, toss the cooked penne pasta with the marinara sauce and meatballs until well coated.

  2. 8

    Serve

    Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

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