This hearty Meatball Bucatini recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. The sauce is infused with aromatic herbs and a touch of pomegranate balsamic for a unique twist. Serve it over bucatini, spaghetti, or linguine for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
Sauce
- crushed tomatoes1can
- minced shallots35g
- minced garlic30g
- dried parsley1tbsp
- dried thyme1tbsp
- dried oregano1tbsp
- bay leaves bay leaves2
- water1cup
- sugar1tbsp
- pomegranate balsamic vinegar1tbsp
- salt and pepper to taste
Meatballs
- ground pork450g
- ground beef450g
- egg white egg white1
- bread85g
- milk140g
- small onion grated onion1
- grated garlic2clove
- fresh parsley8g
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
330.0kcal (16.5%)
Protein
25.0g (50%)
Carbs
20.0g (7.27%)
Sugars
4.2g (8.34%)
Healthy Fat
10.9g
Unhealthy Fat
7.7g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Meatball Bucatini
Sauce Preparation
- Step 1
Sauté shallots and garlic in oil until fragrant.
- Step 2
Add dried herbs and sweat for five minutes.
- Step 3
Add crushed tomatoes and water, then bring to a boil.
- Step 4
Add sugar and pomegranate balsamic vinegar to balance flavors.
- Step 5
Add bay leaves, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Step 6
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Meatball Preparation
- Step 1
Add ground pork and ground beef to a bowl.
- Step 2
Add egg white to the meat mixture.
- Step 3
Soak bread in milk, then add the bread and milk mixture to the meat.
- Step 4
Grate onion and garlic, and add them to the meat mixture.
- Step 5
Add fresh chopped parsley and mix well.
- Step 6
Let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 7
Scoop the mixture into desired meatball sizes and add them to the sauce.
- Step 8
Let the meatballs cook in the sauce for 30 minutes.
Serving
- Step 1
Serve the meatballs and sauce over bucatini, spaghetti, or linguine.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
330.0kcal (16.5%)
Protein
25.0g (50%)
Carbs
20.0g (7.27%)
Sugars
4.2g (8.34%)
Healthy Fat
10.9g
Unhealthy Fat
7.7g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For extra flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried ones in the sauce.
Letting the meatball mixture rest in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld together.
Use a cookie scoop to ensure evenly sized meatballs.
Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more water if needed.
Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
FAQS
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Blanch and peel them before crushing to achieve a similar texture.
Can I freeze the meatballs and sauce?
Yes, both the meatballs and sauce freeze well. Store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What other types of pasta can I use?
You can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free bread and pasta to make the recipe gluten-free.
Can I substitute the pomegranate balsamic vinegar?
You can use regular balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar as a substitute.
Loading reviews...
Brandon Griffin
(@cajuninthekitchen)
Oakland, Ca 📍 Chef Made in Louisiana ⚜️🐊 Oakland, Ca 📍 Chef Made in Louisiana ⚜️🐊...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia