Orecchiette Baresi Recipe

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, the egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Once preheated, bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

Cook the Orecchiette

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Make the Tomato Sauce

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the diced fresh tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Finish the Sauce

Stir in torn basil leaves during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the cooked orecchiette with the tomato sauce. Add the baked meatballs and gently fold to combine.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and meatballs, then top with shaved parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.