Gratin de linguine aux boulettes de viande en sauce tomate

Gratin de Linguine aux Boulettes de Viande en Sauce Tomate

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

For the Pasta and Gratin:

• 1 pound (450g) linguine
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
• Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or plate and set aside.

1. Make the Tomato Sauce:

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

1. Cook the Meatballs:

• Gently add the prepared meatballs to the simmering tomato sauce. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure the meatballs cook evenly.

1. Cook the Linguine:

• While the meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

1. Assemble the Gratin:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked linguine with the meatballs and tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta and meatballs evenly with the sauce.
• Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

1. Bake the Gratin:

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

1. Serve:

• Remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
• Serve hot and enjoy your Gratin de Linguine aux Boulettes de Viande en Sauce Tomate!

This dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner, combining the delicious flavors of homemade meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and cheesy baked pasta.