High Protein Penne Pasta with Meatballs
Elevate your pasta night with this irresistible High Protein Penne Pasta with Meatballs recipe, featuring wholesome whole wheat penne and tender, flavorful meatballs crafted from lean ground beef. A perfect blend of protein-rich ingredients, including grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices like garlic, onion, and herbs, make the meatballs a standout. Coated in a robust crushed tomato sauce and garnished with fresh basil and parsley, this dish strikes the ideal balance between hearty and nutritious. Ready in under an hour, it’s a satisfying, family-friendly meal that delivers bold flavors and healthy energy. Perfect for post-workout meals or a comforting dinner option, this protein-packed pasta will become a go-to favorite! Keywords: High Protein, Penne Pasta, Meatballs, Healthy Dinner, Lean Ground Beef Recipe, Whole Wheat Pasta.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 300 g whole wheat penne pasta
- 500 g lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 50 g parmesan cheese, grated
- 60 g breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 400 g crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 leaves fresh basil, for garnish
- 4 liters water
- 1 tbsp extra salt for pasta water
Instructions
Bring 4 liters of salted water to a boil in a large pot.
Add 300g of whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine 500g lean ground beef, 1 large egg, 50g grated parmesan cheese, 60g breadcrumbs, 2 minced garlic cloves, 0.5 medium onion finely chopped, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, using your hands.
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set them aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add 400g crushed tomatoes, 0.5 tsp salt, and additional herbs if desired. Stir well to combine.
Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer over low heat for 10-12 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through.
Add the cooked penne to the skillet and gently toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Sprinkle with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Serve hot and enjoy your high-protein penne pasta with meatballs.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2740 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 96.2 g | 123% | |
| Saturated Fat | 32.6 g | 163% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 579 mg | 193% | |
| Sodium | 12585 mg | 547% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 289.4 g | 105% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.5 g | 109% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.3 g | ||
| Protein | 180.2 g | 360% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 1091 mg | 84% | |
| Iron | 29.7 mg | 165% | |
| Potassium | 2396 mg | 51% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
