Description
Sizzling BBQ meatball pasta brings together zesty flavors in a comforting dish that satisfies comfort food cravings. Savory beef meatballs glazed with smoky barbecue sauce mingle perfectly with al dente pasta, creating a meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) frozen meatballs
Pasta:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or rotini)
Sauce and Seasonings:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Cheese and Garnish:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare pasta according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
- Create a flavor-packed sauce in a large skillet by whisking together BBQ sauce, ketchup, honey, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing ingredients to meld and develop rich flavors.
- Carefully introduce frozen meatballs into the simmering sauce, covering the skillet to trap heat and ensure even warming.
- Cook meatballs for 8-10 minutes, gently stirring periodically to prevent sticking and promote uniform heating.
- Fold the prepared pasta into the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat each strand with the savory sauce and integrate meatballs.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot mixture, allowing it to melt and create a creamy, luxurious finish.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a bright, crisp contrast and serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Choose lean ground meat or turkey meatballs for a healthier protein option that reduces overall fat content while maintaining delicious flavor.
- Experiment with homemade BBQ sauce variations using different spice combinations to customize the taste profile and make the dish uniquely yours.
- For gluten-free adaptation, use gluten-free pasta and ensure BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
- Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach directly into the sauce for increased nutritional value and a boost of color and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg