"Orzo takes the place of breadcrumbs in these beef meatballs. As they cook, the orzo absorbs the sauce, adding even more flavor to this already tasty dish...."
INGREDIENTS
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1 large or 2 small shallots (minced)
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2 garlic cloves (minced)
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1 large egg
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1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 pound ground chuck (20 percent fat)
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¼ cup orzo pasta
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½ cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
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¼ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped, plus whole leaves for garnish)
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¼ cup water
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½ teaspoon kosher salt
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¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 23.5-ounce jar store-bought marinara
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Shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese