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Easy Homemade Spaghetti O’s with Meatballs

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A nostalgic and simple take on spaghetti and meatballs, using tiny pasta and homemade meatballs in a rich tomato sauce.

  • Author: daniel-kim
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or macaroni)
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your small pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 7-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ground meat, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands.
  3. Form the Meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a tablespoon.
  4. Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Add the meatballs in batches, frying for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the tomato sauce and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
  6. Combine and Heat: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and meatballs. Toss gently until the pasta is coated and heated through, simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Cooking with family can make this a delightful activity. Feel free to swap meats or add veggies for extra nutrition.

Nutrition