Instructions:

• Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
• Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Step 3: Make the Sauce - To the skillet, add 3 tablespoons of salted butter and let it melt. Stir in the salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper, mixing well. Then, pour in the 28 oz can of tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes) and the 1 cup of half-and-half. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
• Step 4: Add the Meatballs - If you’re using frozen meatballs, make sure to heat them according to package instructions. Once heated, add the meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. If you’re using homemade meatballs, simply add them to the sauce and let them soak in the flavors.
• Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce - Once the meatballs have finished simmering, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy pink sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Step 6: Finish with Parmesan - Stir in the ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with additional Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for garnish.