Homemade Spaghetti O's with Meatballs
Tender annelini pasta, mini beef meatballs, tomato paste, butter, broth, and Parmesan cook together into a cozy tomato pasta bowl. A family-style comfort food dinner that works well for kids meals, pasta nights, and make-ahead leftovers.
Equipment
- Dutch oven or deep saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 can tomato paste 6 or 7-ounce can, about 3/4 cup
- 2 teaspoons pizza seasoning or dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt more to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar optional
- 2 cups frozen mini beef meatballs
- 5-6 cups beef broth or water use more as needed
- 16 ounces dried annelini pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, plus 1/2 cup for serving if desired
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or deep saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until it darkens slightly.
- Stir in the pizza seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and sugar if using.
- Pour in 5 cups of beef broth or water and whisk until the tomato paste turns into a smooth sauce.
- Add the frozen mini beef meatballs and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the annelini pasta and cook, stirring often, until the pasta is tender.
- Add extra broth or water as needed if the sauce thickens before the pasta is fully cooked.
- Turn off the heat, stir in Parmesan if using, taste, and serve warm with extra cheese.
Notes
Storage: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 2 months, but expect the pasta to soften slightly after thawing.
Best Tips: Stir often once the annelini pasta goes in because small pasta settles and can stick as the sauce thickens.
Sauce Tips: Start with 5 cups of liquid, then add more only if the pasta needs extra time or the sauce becomes too thick.
Variations: Try turkey meatballs, chicken broth, peas, spinach, mozzarella, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Kid-Friendly Notes: Keep the seasoning mild and serve with extra Parmesan at the table so everyone can adjust their bowl.