Easy Meatballs, Vegetables & Pasta Ground Beef

Ingredients

• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped onion
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/8 tsp. pepper
• or - 16 ounces frozen, fully cooked meatballs
• 8 oz. uncooked penne pasta
• 3 cups (12 oz.) frozen Italian vegetable mixture
• 1 jar (26 oz.) prepared spaghetti sauce
• 2 Tbsp. shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Heat oven to 375°F. In large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion, salt and pepper; mix lightly but thoroughly.

In 8-inch square baking dish, press beef mixture into 1/2-inch thickness. Bake at 375°F for approximately 20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F. Carefully pour off drippings. Cut beef mixture into 16 squares. (Or, substitute fully cooked meatballs.)

Meanwhile cook pasta according to package directions. Approximately 6 minute before pasta is done, stir in vegetables. Drain; keep warm.

In large saucepan, combine "meatballs" (squares) and spaghetti sauce. Cook, uncovered, over medium-low heat 6 to 8 minutes or until heated through; stir occasionally. Serve over pasta and vegetables. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.