Description
Succulent BBQ meatball pasta brings Italian-American comfort to dinner tables with a zesty twist. Hearty protein, smoky sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 pound frozen meatballs
Pasta and Cheese:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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
- Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare pasta according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Thoroughly drain and reserve.
- Craft a robust sauce by whisking together BBQ sauce, ketchup, honey, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a spacious skillet.
- Bring sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and develop depth.
- Introduce frozen meatballs directly into the simmering sauce, covering the skillet to trap heat and ensure even warming.
- Cook meatballs for 8-10 minutes, periodically stirring to prevent sticking and guarantee uniform heating throughout.
- Incorporate cooked pasta into the skillet, gently folding to completely enrobe each pasta strand with the tangy sauce and meatballs.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the surface, allowing residual heat to naturally melt the cheese into a creamy blanket.
- Garnish with finely chopped green onions for a fresh, sharp contrast to the rich, savory dish.
- Serve immediately while piping hot, ensuring maximum flavor and optimal cheese melt.
Notes
- Select meatballs carefully by choosing pre-cooked varieties for faster preparation and consistent texture.
- Swap traditional BBQ sauce with homemade or low-sugar versions to control sweetness and reduce calories.
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition, creating a more balanced meal without compromising flavor.
- Experiment with different cheese options like smoked gouda or pepper jack to introduce unique taste profiles and make the dish more exciting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg