Meatball Parm Orzo
Recipe: https://recipestripper.com/recipes/5d30f0a3-2a70-494a-9240-fd663ad8137d
Original source: https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a62830811/best-meatball-parm-orzo-recipe/

This meatball Parm orzo has all the makings of your favorite weeknight meal with all the heartiness and flavor of a meatball sub in a simple one-pot pasta.
Yield: 6 serving(s)
Prep time: PT20M
Cook time: PT0S
Total time: PT45M

Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/4 c. Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp. coarsely chopped fresh basil
- 1 tbsp. heavy cream
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 (28-oz.) can whole peeled tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 10 oz. orzo (about 1 1/4 cups)
- 1 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 3/4 cup), divided
- 1/2 c. shredded mozzarella
- Fresh basil leaves, for serving

Instructions
1. [Meatballs] In a large bowl, combine beef, egg, Parmesan, bread crumbs, basil, cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using); season with salt and black pepper. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until well combined. Using a large cookie scoop or spoon, portion mixture into 15 meatballs (about 3 Tbsp. each).
2. [Meatballs] In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Cook meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, 5 to 7 minutes.
3. [Sauce & Pasta] Turn on broiler. In a large bowl, crush tomatoes with your hands or a potato masher.
4. [Sauce & Pasta] Add tomatoes and their juices, Italian seasoning, and 3 cups water to meatballs; season with salt and black pepper and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, about 5 minutes. Transfer meatballs to a large plate. Add orzo to sauce and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes.
5. [Sauce & Pasta] Stir in butter and 1/2 cup Parmesan until melted. Return meatballs to skillet and top with mozzarella and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan.
6. [Sauce & Pasta] Broil, watching closely, until cheese is melted, 2 to 3 minutes. Top with basil.