If you're craving a heartwarming meal to bring everyone together, this Linguine Gratin with Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is the perfect comforting, Italian-inspired bake! Every bite is full of savory meatballs, layered pasta, and bubbling cheese—a taste of Mediterranean sunshine, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients for 4 people

  • 400 g linguine
  • 250 g grated mozzarella

For the tomato sauce:

  • 1 onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 600 g tomato purée
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon paprika powder
  • 2 cups (glasses) of water
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

For the meatballs:

  • 400 g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
  • Salt and pepper

How to Prepare Linguine Gratin

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 390°F).
  2. Prepare the tomato sauce: In a large pan, heat olive oil on medium. Add chopped onion, sauté 2-3 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook another minute. Add tomato purée, bay leaves, oregano, paprika, and water; season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Remove bay leaves.
  3. Make the meatballs: While the sauce cooks, mix the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Form into small balls. Brown the meatballs on all sides in a skillet (they'll finish cooking in the oven).
  4. Cook the linguine: Boil in salted water until al dente—the pasta will cook more in the oven. Drain and mix lightly with some tomato sauce to prevent sticking.
  5. Assemble: Layer linguine in a large baking dish, add tomato sauce, brown meatballs, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layers and top with mozzarella.
  6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake 20–25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Let cool slightly before serving. Pair with crisp salad and crusty bread.

Pro-tips for the Perfect Bake

  • Add a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce for richer flavor.
  • Swap linguine for spaghetti or penne if desired.
  • Sprinkle with Parmesan before baking for an extra cheesy crust.

Gather your loved ones and enjoy this bubbling Linguine Gratin with Meatballs in Tomato Sauce—sure to become a favorite at your table!

Source: https://recepten.servi.tn/linguine-gratin-met-gehaktballetjes-in-tomatensaus/