Tagliatelle Meatball Cake

Tagliatelle Meatball Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to create a show-stopping dish that combines hearty pasta with rich meatballs, the Tagliatelle Meatball Cake is a unique and delicious option. This savory creation layers tender tagliatelle with juicy meatballs in a cake form, making it a delightful centerpiece for family gatherings or special dinners.

Ingredients:

For the Tagliatelle:

• 400g (14 oz) tagliatelle pasta (fresh or dry)
• Salt for boiling water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Meatballs:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef or pork (or a mix of both)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

For Assembly:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, diced onion, minced garlic, parsley, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until well combined but be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
2. Shape the meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter).
3. Cook the meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, ensuring each one is browned on all sides and fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Tagliatelle

1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Fresh pasta typically cooks in 2-3 minutes, while dried pasta may take 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and toss it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking and adds flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet used for the meatballs, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the diced onion over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Simmer the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Tagliatelle Meatball Cake

1. Prepare a springform pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal later.
2. Layer the tagliatelle: Add half of the cooked and cheese-coated tagliatelle to the bottom of the springform pan. Press it down gently to create an even layer.
3. Add the meatballs and sauce: Place the cooked meatballs on top of the first layer of tagliatelle. Pour about half of the prepared tomato sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Add cheese and more pasta: Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese over the meatballs and sauce. Top with the remaining tagliatelle, pressing it down lightly to ensure the layers are compact.
5. Final cheese layer: Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the top layer of tagliatelle. This helps bind everything together as it bakes. Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Tagliatelle Meatball Cake

1. Bake: Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Cool and remove from pan: Once baked, let the Tagliatelle Meatball Cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This will help it set and make it easier to slice. Carefully remove the springform pan’s outer ring before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish and serve: Garnish the Tagliatelle Meatball Cake with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve with extra tomato sauce on the side if desired, along with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Tips for Success:

• Use fresh tagliatelle if possible, as it provides a softer texture that pairs beautifully with the meatballs.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance, refrigerating them until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
• Customizable filling: Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between the layers for extra nutrition and flavor.

This Tagliatelle Meatball Cake is a fun and flavorful dish, perfect for a special dinner that will impress your guests!