Did you know that over 70% of home cooks prefer one-pot meals for their simplicity and ease? I’ve always been a fan of dishes that cut down on cleanup, and this one-pot spaghetti with meatballs is no exception—it’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for those busy nights. Imagine tender meatballs nestled in a rich tomato sauce, all cooked together with spaghetti in one pot. Curious about the secret to making it just right? Stick around.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This One-Pot Spaghetti With Meatballs recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, combining simplicity and flavor in one dish. You’ll love how it minimizes cleanup while delivering a hearty, satisfying meal. Quick and Easy: Everything cooks in a single pot, saving time and effort. Flavor-Packed: Juicy meatballs and perfectly cooked spaghetti come together in a rich, savory sauce. Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Recipe
One-pot spaghetti with meatballs is a convenient and flavorful dish that combines hearty meatballs with tender pasta in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe simplifies the cooking process by using just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners, it delivers all the comfort of classic spaghetti and meatballs with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add spaghetti and meatballs, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and sauce has thickened.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes: For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach desired consistency.
Time: Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving: 6
Calories: 650 per serving
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment
To make One-Pot Spaghetti With Meatballs, you’ll need a few essential tools to guarantee the cooking process is smooth and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board (if prepping fresh ingredients)
- Mixing bowls (for meatball mixture)
- Tongs or fork for serving
Nutrition
One-Pot Spaghetti With Meatballs is a balanced meal offering a mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins. It’s hearty, flavorful, and provides a good source of energy for your day.
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Protein: Around 25-30g from meatballs and pasta
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 45-55g, primarily from spaghetti
- Fat: About 15-20g, with a mix of healthy and saturated fats
- Fiber: Around 3-5g, depending on sauce and whole-grain pasta use
- Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in iron, vitamin C, and B vitamins from tomato sauce and meat
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing this one-pot spaghetti with a dish that adds texture or freshness, like garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. Sometimes, I’ll go for something hearty, like steamed vegetables or cheesy garlic rolls, to keep the meal cozy. A Caesar salad is another favorite of mine, especially when I want something crisp and tangy to balance the rich flavors.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic sidekick that’s hard to resist, especially with a hearty dish like one-pot spaghetti and meatballs. I love slathering thick slices of crusty bread—like French or Italian loaf—with rich garlic butter, made with minced garlic, butter, and a pinch of parsley. Toasted until golden, it’s crispy on the outside, soft inside, and perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce. It’s irresistible!
Caesar Salad
When you’re diving into a comforting plate of one-pot spaghetti and meatballs, a crisp Caesar salad can be the perfect fresh contrast to all that richness. I love experimenting with Caesar dressing variations, like adding a pinch of chili flakes or a squeeze of lemon for a twist. For crouton alternatives, I’ll toss in roasted chickpeas or crispy prosciutto for extra crunch without the bread.
Steamed Vegetables
Though one-pot spaghetti and meatballs is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with steamed vegetables can balance the meal with a lighter, healthier touch. I love how the steamed vegetable benefits, like retaining nutrients and adding crunch, complement the richness of the dish. Broccoli, carrots, or zucchini are perfect pairings, making the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to eat.
Cheesy Garlic Rolls
If you’re looking to add a comforting side to your one-pot spaghetti and meatballs, cheesy garlic rolls are a game-changer. I love experimenting with cheesy variations, like adding mozzarella, cheddar, or even parmesan for extra flavor. If garlic’s not your thing, try garlic substitutes like roasted garlic or garlic powder for a milder taste. These rolls are soft, gooey, and perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce!
Fresh Garden Salad
A crisp, fresh garden salad is the perfect way to balance the rich flavors of one-pot spaghetti and meatballs. I love tossing together fresh ingredients like crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers. A light drizzle of my favorite salad dressings, whether it’s tangy vinaigrette or creamy ranch, adds just the right finish. It’s simple, rejuvenating, and complements the meal beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs?
I once tried juggling frozen oranges, and though clumsy, they worked fine. Same with frozen meatballs—they’re convenient. I’ve used brands like Cooked Perfect but prefer homemade meatball tips for better flavor and texture every time.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe isn’t gluten-free as is, but I can make it work with gluten-free options. I’d use gluten-free pasta and check meatballs for gluten. Ingredient substitutions, like gluten-free breadcrumbs, are easy swaps for a similar result.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store savory spaghetti swiftly! For leftover storage, I place portions in proper containers—tightly sealed to trap taste and texture. Refrigerate for quick consumption or freeze for feasts later, ensuring my meatballs stay marvelous for meals ahead.
Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Sure, you can use a different pasta shape if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the pasta cooking time based on the shape you choose—some cook faster, while others may take a bit longer to get tender.
What’S the Best Way to Reheat This Dish?
When it’s time to *hit the nail on the head* with reheating, I’d go for the stovetop method—toss it in a pan with a splash of water to keep it moist. For *microwave tips*, cover it and stir halfway through.
