Pesto Mafaldine Alla Vodka with Crispy Breadcrumbs
This is a super simple, low maintenance recipe that is perfect for weeknight dinner but also impressive enough for serving on special occasions. We are shamelessly using store bought meatballs, pesto and sauce and we won’t be apologizing for it! Of course you’re welcome to make them from scratch as well if you’re feeling it! Either way this is a dish that is guaranteed to be on repeat in your kitchen.
Servings : about 6
Prep Time : 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
1/4 cup gluten-free Italian breadcrumbs, See Recipe Notes
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz precooked meatballs, store bought or homemade
24 oz jar vodka sauce
1/2 cup pesto alla genovese, plus more for serving
16 oz gluten-free Mafaldine pasta, See Recipe Notes
1/2 cup parmigiano reggiano, freshly grated
1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly chopped in strips
Directions
In a large dry skillet, toast the breadcrumbs over medium heat, stirring often, until golden and crispy. Transfer to them to a small bowl and set them aside.
In the same skillet heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in the meatballs and allow them to crisp, turning occasionally until they have an even browning on all sides. About 4-6 minutes. Once done remove the meatballs from the pan and transfer them to bowl while you prepare the sauce.
Pour the vodka sauce into the same skillet then stir in the pesto and 1/4 cup of the grated parmesan. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes.
While the sauce is simmering bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, salt it generously and add in the pasta. Cook until al dente then drain.
Add the pasta and meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together until fully combined. Remove the pan from the heat.
Dot the finished pasta with more pesto and sprinkle on the breadcrumbs. Serve topped with fresh basil and more grated parmesan.
Notes
I used La Fabbrica della Pasta brand gluten-free Mafaldine pasta. It can be hard to find locally so feel free to swap it for your pasta of choice.
My favorite brands of gluten-free breadcrumbs are Ian’s and Aleia’s.
