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Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
Start by preparing the meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until fully combined.
- Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 16-18 meatballs, depending on the size you make them.
- Cook the meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the tagliatelle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but be sure to save a bit of the pasta water for later. Drizzle the pasta with olive oil to prevent it from sticking together and let it cool slightly.
- Form the nests: Lightly grease a muffin tin or a baking dish with olive oil. Take a small bundle of pasta and twist it into a nest shape in each muffin tin cup, leaving a hollow center. Repeat with the remaining pasta.
Step 3: Stuff the Nests
Now it’s time to stuff your nests with the meatballs and cheese:
- Place a meatball in the center of each pasta nest.
- Top each nest with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- If desired, you can add a little extra parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Nests
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the filled pasta nests into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta edges are slightly crispy.
- Tip: If you want extra crispiness, you can broil the nests for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
While the pasta nests are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in olive oil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes to warm up and allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the nests are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. To serve, spoon some warm marinara sauce onto each plate and carefully lift the pasta nests from the muffin tin, placing them on top of the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Meatball-Stuffed Tagliatelle Nests
- Use a Variety of Cheeses: You can experiment with different cheeses like ricotta, fontina, or provolone for stuffing the nests to add more flavor complexity.
- Customize the Meatballs: Feel free to add herbs and spices like red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or chopped onions to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
- Make it Your Own: Want to go the extra mile? Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the pasta nests for a veggie-packed version.
- Prepare Ahead of Time: If you want to save time, you can make the meatballs and pasta nests ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just bake them off right before serving.
Conclusion
These cheesy meatball-stuffed tagliatelle nests are a fun and delicious way to enjoy pasta in a whole new way. The combination of tender meatballs, melted cheese, and crispy pasta, all topped with flavorful marinara sauce, makes for a perfect dinner that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a hearty meal, this dish is sure to satisfy!
Give this recipe a try, and watch as your family and friends rave about these mouthwatering pasta nests. Enjoy!
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