Orecchiette with Italian Style Meatballs

Indulge in the comforting and flavorful goodness of Orecchiette Pasta with Italian Style Meatballs and a delectable mushroom and kale sauce. This delightful recipe brings together the rich flavors of Rosina Italian Style Meatballs, earthy cremini mushrooms, nutrient-packed kale, and aromatic shallots and garlic to create a wholesome and satisfying dish. The combination of tender meatballs, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked orecchiette pasta makes this a complete and fulfilling meal that the whole family will love. As the delightful aroma fills your kitchen and your taste buds tingle with anticipation, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. So, let’s embark on this culinary journey and savor the warm embrace of Orecchiette Pasta with Italian Style Meatballs.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 package (26 oz.) Rosina Italian Style Meatballs
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 package (10 oz.) cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 4 cups chopped kale, ribs and stems removed
• 1 shallot, minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 lb. orecchiette pasta
• 4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

PREPARATIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and cook the meatballs according to the package instructions. Set them aside for later use.
2. To make the sauce, set a large sauté pan over medium heat, add the butter and the mushrooms. Cook for 5 minutes until the mushrooms begin to brown, stirring often.
3. Stir in the chopped kale, minced shallots, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir well, creating a roux to thicken the sauce.
5. Add the chicken stock to the pan, bringing it to a boil.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, reducing the heat to a simmer. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions.
8. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Customize the dish by adding other vegetables of your choice, such as spinach or roasted red peppers, to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

TIPS:

• For extra richness, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce.
• Top the dish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

In conclusion, Orecchiette Pasta with Italian Style Meatballs is a delightful and wholesome dish that brings together the goodness of tender meatballs, earthy cremini mushrooms, nutrient-packed kale, and aromatic shallots and garlic. This flavorful combination creates a satisfying and nourishing meal that will surely become a family favorite. The ease of preparing this dish makes it a wonderful option for busy weeknights when you want a comforting and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

As the delightful aroma of the mushrooms and kale sautéing in butter fills your kitchen, you’ll know that something special is in the making. The velvety sauce, enriched with a roux, coats the orecchiette pasta and meatballs in a blanket of flavor, creating a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The addition of grated parmesan cheese on top adds a delicious burst of savory goodness to the dish, elevating it to a new level of indulgence.

Orecchiette Pasta with Italian Style Meatballs is a versatile dish that you can easily customize to suit your preferences. You can add other vegetables of your choice, such as spinach or roasted red peppers, to the sauce, enhancing the flavors and boosting the nutritional content. For those who crave a touch of richness, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese can be added to the sauce, providing a luscious and creamy texture.

In conclusion, Orecchiette Pasta with Italian Style Meatballs is a celebration of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to create a delightful and satisfying meal. As you savor each bite of this comforting dish, you’ll appreciate the heartiness and wholesome goodness it brings to the table. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the ease of this recipe, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious and satisfying meal that will surely warm your hearts and fill your bellies.