- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish