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Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatball Pasta

Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatball Pasta

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatball Pasta is a bold and comforting dish that brings together juicy meatballs, tender pasta, and a lip-smacking barbecue sauce. It’s a fun twist on traditional spaghetti and meatballs with a sweet, smoky kick that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/4 cups BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Add BBQ sauce, tomato sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5–7 minutes to blend flavors.
  4. Add cooked meatballs to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cover and simmer for 5–8 minutes until heated through.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until everything is well mixed and coated in sauce.
  6. Top with shredded cheese if using, cover, and cook on low until melted.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Notes

  • Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a leaner version.
  • Make it spicy by adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
  • For extra texture, top with crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 530
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: bbq meatball pasta, sweet and tangy pasta, meatball pasta bake, bbq dinner idea, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner

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Find it online: https://easycookdiary.com/sweet-and-tangy-bbq-meatball-pasta/