Beef Meatballs with Penne
SERVES 2 // READY IN 30 MINS // 597 CALS
For a cosy, hearty dinner that’s both high in protein and low in fat, these Beef Meatballs with Penne are just what you need. Juicy, herby meatballs are baked to perfection and then simmered in a rich, smoky tomato sauce. Tossed with al dente penne and finished with a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s ideal for a relaxed weeknight meal. With all the classic flavours of a comforting pasta dish, this one is sure to become a favourite!
Beef Meatballs with Penne
SERVES 2 // READY IN 30 MINS // 597 CALS
Ingredients
200g (7oz) minced (ground) beef 5% fat
1 heaped tsp garlic paste
2 heaped tbsp (10g) panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp dried mixed herbs
half tsp smoked paprika
160g (1 1/2 cups) penne pasta
1 tsp olive oil
5g (small tsp) sun dried tomato paste
1 x 400g (14oz) can chopped (crushed) tomatoes
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
20g (half oz) parmesan, finely grated
Directions
STEP 1
Pre-heat the oven to 180C Fan/400F.
In a large bowl, mix together the beef mince, half a tsp of garlic paste, panko breadcrumbs, dried mixed herbs, smoked paprika and a pinch of black pepper. Use your hands to break up the mince and thoroughly combine. Roll into small balls, 4-6 per person. Pop the meatballs onto a baking tray. When the oven is hot, bake on the top shelf until browned on the outside and cooked through, 12-15 mins.
STEP 2
Bring a pan of water to the boil, adding a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. When the water is boiling, add the penne and bring back to the boil. Cook until just tender, 10-12 mins.
STEP 3
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large frying pan on a med heat. Add the remaining half tsp garlic and sun-dried tomato paste and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
Add the chopped tomatoes and sugar. Stir to combine, then simmer for 5-6 minutes.
STEP 4
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the red wine vinegar. Add the meatballs and their cooking juices from the baking tray, stirring gently to combine without breaking up the meatballs. Finally stir in the penne pasta.
STEP 5
Divide between two serving bowls and sprinkle with parmesan and black pepper.
NUTRITIONAL INFO (PER SERVING)
597 CALS // 45G PROTEIN // 12G FAT // 73G CARBS