Homemade Spaghetti O’s with Meatballs is a fun twist on a childhood favorite! With soft pasta and tiny meatballs, this dish is both comforting and tasty.
Making these from scratch is a breeze! I love how quick it comes together, plus I can control the ingredients. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
O-shaped pasta: This is the classic choice for Spaghetti O’s but you can also use small shells or even ditalini. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options.
Ground beef: Ground turkey or chicken works well if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version!
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using plain breadcrumbs, but panko adds a nice crunch. If you’re gluten-free, swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a homemade touch, you can crush some toasted bread.
Crushed tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes create the base of your sauce. If you prefer, you can use fresh tomatoes (just puree them) or tomato sauce. Avoid tomato paste if you want a lighter sauce.
Cheese: Parmesan is my go-to for the meatballs. Romano is a great substitute too. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor in the sauce.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Juicy?
Making juicy meatballs hinges on a few key steps. It’s all about combining the right ingredients with care. Here’s how to make them perfect:
- Don’t overmix the meatball ingredients—mix just until combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Using breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture. You can even soak them slightly in water first.
- Keep your meatballs about 1 inch in diameter for even cooking. You want them small but not tiny!
- Cook them gently in a skillet, letting them brown without crowding the pan. This helps seal in juices.
With these tips, your meatballs will come out tender and flavorful every time!
What’s the Best Way to Combine Pasta and Sauce?
Combining pasta and sauce can feel tricky, but it’s easy! Here’s how to achieve a delicious mix without making a mess:
- Ensure your pasta is al dente, as it will absorb some sauce as it sits.
- Before draining pasta, reserve a little cooking water—this starchy water can help the sauce adhere better.
- Toss the pasta with the sauce in the skillet on low heat, spreading the sauce evenly. If it seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Getting the sauce-coated pasta just right will make every bite delicious!
Homemade Spaghetti O’s with Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces O-shaped pasta (or small pasta rings)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Meatballs:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water or low-sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
To Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to cook, making the total time around 45-50 minutes. This includes preparing the meatballs, making the sauce, and cooking the pasta. It’s a perfect dinner option that’s both comforting and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything gently but thoroughly.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, around 1 inch in diameter. Set them aside for cooking.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook them, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Once done, remove the meatballs and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if you need it. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent, around 3 minutes.
5. Add Sauce Ingredients:
Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, water or broth, sugar (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes so it can thicken slightly.
7. Cook the Pasta:
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the O-shaped pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
8. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Add the cooked meatballs back into the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly.
9. Mix Pasta with Sauce:
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and meatballs, stirring gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the delicious sauce.
10. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your homemade Spaghetti O’s hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a tasty finish. Enjoy your comforting bowl of goodness!
Dig in and savor every bite of your delicious homemade Spaghetti O’s with Meatballs!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added nutrients and fiber. If you need gluten-free pasta, look for gluten-free O-shaped pasta or small pasta rings available in most grocery stores.
How Can I Make the Meatballs Healthier?
You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce fat content. Adding chopped vegetables like zucchini or spinach into the meatball mixture can also boost the nutrition while keeping them moist.
Can I Freeze Leftover Spaghetti O’s with Meatballs?
Yes, you can! Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
What Should I Serve with Spaghetti O’s?
This dish is delicious on its own, but for a full meal, consider a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complement the flavors and add some freshness!
