Sicilian-Style Meatballs And Fettuccine
Sicilian-style meatballs and fettuccine combine rich beef and Italian sausage flavors with savory tomato sauce, making a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 10 oz. uncooked fettuccine ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. bulk Italian sausage ⓘ
- 1/4 c. finely minced onion ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. dry bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 egg, beaten ⓘ
- 1 (14 1/2 oz.) can beef broth ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. dried basil leaves ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine to desired doneness as directed on the package; drain.
- Keep warm.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, minced onion, bread crumbs, beaten egg, salt, garlic powder, basil leaves, and pepper.
- Form mixture into meatballs.
- In a large skillet, cook meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Add beef broth and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to combine and heat through.
- Serve meatballs and sauce over cooked fettuccine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture. If you don't have bulk Italian sausage, you can use regular sausage and season it with Italian herbs. For a gluten-free option, swap the bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Make sure to sear the meatballs well for a nice crust, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs and sauce over the fettuccine, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. A side of garlic bread complements the dish beautifully, and a simple green salad adds freshness to the meal. For a complete Italian experience, consider pairing it with Charlo'S Spaghetti Sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, ensuring even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sicilian-Style Meatballs And Fettuccine contains roughly 776 calories, with 26g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and potassium (49% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs either cooked or uncooked. If freezing cooked meatballs, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the sauce before serving.
What can I serve with Sicilian-Style Meatballs?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a light arugula salad. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. For a delightful Italian-themed dinner, consider adding Italian recipes like Lasagna With A Twist to your menu.
How can I make the meatballs more tender?
To achieve tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Use a light hand when forming the meatballs, and consider adding a tablespoon of milk to the mix to keep them moist. Cooking the meatballs in a sauce also helps to keep them tender as they absorb moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).