This comforting and delicious dish features tagliatelle pasta nests topped with savory meatballs, all cooked in a creamy sauce. It’s an easy one-pan meal that combines the richness of the meatballs with the smoothness of the sour cream-based sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is both satisfying and full of flavor, making it a great choice for any occasion.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Calories per Serving: Approximately 420 kcal
Ingredients:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 300 g ground meat (approximately 3/4 pound; use beef, pork, chicken, or a mix)
- 1 egg, for binding the meatballs
- Dry spices: oregano, smoked paprika, dried garlic, pepper, and salt, to taste
- 6 tagliatelle nests (dry pasta)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (or substitute with ketchup or tomato sauce)
- 3–4 tablespoons sour cream
- 450 ml warm broth or warm water (approximately 2 cups)
- 100 g cheese, shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Chopped spring onions, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- Finely chop the onion and add it to the ground meat in a mixing bowl.
- Crack in the egg and sprinkle with your choice of dry spices (oregano, smoked paprika, dried garlic, pepper, and salt).
- Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until the mixture is well combined. This will help the meatballs hold their shape while cooking and infuse them with flavor.
- Assemble the Tagliatelle Nests:
- Take a wide, cold pan with a lid and arrange the six tagliatelle nests evenly inside.
- Form small meatballs from the seasoned ground meat mixture and place one meatball in the center of each pasta nest.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine the tomato paste, sour cream, warm broth (or water), and a pinch of salt.
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This creamy sauce will cook the pasta and meatballs while adding richness to the dish.
- Cook the Nests:
- Pour the sauce mixture over the nests and meatballs, ensuring the liquid surrounds the nests but doesn’t completely cover them.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the pasta is tender.
- Finish the Dish:
- Once the dish is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cover the pan again until the cheese melts.
- Garnish with chopped spring onions for a burst of freshness and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the sauce.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Top with extra grated cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to stir the sauce gently while cooking to avoid breaking up the tagliatelle nests.
- If you prefer, you can use any ground meat of your choice, or even a vegetarian alternative.
- If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Ground meat provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.
- Tagliatelle pasta offers carbohydrates, which provide energy.
- Sour cream adds a rich, creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
- This dish also includes onions and spring onions, which are rich in antioxidants and beneficial to overall health.
Dietary Information:
- Dietary Restrictions: Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
- Suitable For: Meat lovers, those seeking a comforting and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
- To reheat, simply warm the dish on the stove with a little extra broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting, one-pan dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
- It’s easy to customize with your favorite ground meat or pasta variations.
- The creamy sauce and melted cheese add a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
- It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal, but delicious enough for special occasions.
Conclusion: These Meatball Tagliatelle Nests are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together tender pasta, savory meatballs, and a creamy sauce. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that you can prepare in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving guests, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. - Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then assemble and cook it when you’re ready to serve. - What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. - Can I make this dish without meat?
Yes, you can use plant-based ground meat alternatives or make vegetarian meatballs from lentils or chickpeas. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or on the stove. - Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce to make the dish more nutritious. - How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked. - Can I use chicken broth instead of water for the sauce?
Yes, chicken broth will add more flavor to the sauce. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. - How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of chili flakes or some hot sauce to the sauce mixture to add a spicy kick!