Description
One-Pot Spaghetti-O’s with Mini Meatballs is a nostalgic, comforting homemade dish featuring tender mini meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with small ring-shaped pasta. This easy-to-make meal combines simple ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful dinner perfect for families and loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Mini Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Sauce and Pasta:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups small ring-shaped pasta (such as anellini or O’s)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Extra grated Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form Mini Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, placing them on a plate ready for cooking.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides with occasional turning. Once browned, remove meatballs to a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Meatballs: Return browned meatballs to the pot with the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the small ring-shaped pasta. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Add additional broth if needed to maintain sauce consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the sauce and season with additional salt or pepper if desired. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm for a comforting family meal.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter option.
- Add finely diced carrots, zucchini, or spinach to increase vegetable content.
- Use alternative small pasta shapes like shells, ditalini, or elbow macaroni if ring-shaped pasta is unavailable.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth.
- You can freeze this dish, though pasta may soften upon thawing.
- To prevent pasta from sticking, stir occasionally and ensure enough liquid is present while cooking.
- Make it cheesy by adding mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses before serving.
- For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
