Moroccan-Spiced Meatball Pasta (Print Version)

Tender meatballs and pasta in zesty harissa cream, topped with herbs for bold, satisfying flavors.

# Components:

→ Meatballs

01 - 14 oz ground beef
02 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced
03 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Pasta

09 - 10 oz linguine or spaghetti
10 - Salt for boiling pasta

→ Harissa Cream Sauce

11 - 2/3 cup Greek yogurt
12 - 1 to 2 tablespoons harissa paste, adjusted to taste
13 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
14 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
15 - Salt, to taste

→ Garnish

16 - Chopped fresh mint or parsley
17 - Extra harissa paste for drizzling, optional

# Directions:

01 - Combine ground beef, minced garlic, ground cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix gently until evenly combined, then shape into 20 to 24 small, uniform meatballs.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook until al dente, following package directions. Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and sear, turning to brown all sides. Cover and continue cooking until the meatballs are cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove from the pan and keep warm.
04 - Combine Greek yogurt, harissa paste, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. If a thinner consistency is needed, incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta water.
05 - Toss hot pasta with the harissa cream sauce until evenly coated. Portion the pasta onto plates, add meatballs, and finish with chopped mint or parsley. Drizzle with extra harissa paste if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Customizable heat layered with aromatic spices for real depth
  • Relies on many pantry staples so it is easy to pull together
  • Leftovers taste even better and reheat well for lunches
  • Prep the meatballs ahead for effortless entertaining
02 -
  • High in satisfying protein and full of big bold spices
  • Freeze cooked meatballs for future meal prep
  • Ideal for parties makes a generous batch and wows guests
03 -
  • Toast your cumin and paprika briefly before mixing with the beef to unlock an even deeper aroma and flavor
  • Do not skip letting the meatballs rest after shaping for juicier texture Always use fresh herbs on top it is what elevates the dish from good to irresistible

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