Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatball Pasta
This Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatball Pasta is the perfect combination of savory meatballs and sweet BBQ sauce, topped with gooey cheddar cheese. It’s an easy-to-make, family-friendly meal that will leave everyone asking for more!
- 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
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini) – For the pasta base, use penne or rotini for the perfect texture.
- 1 lb frozen meatballs – The key protein component, frozen meatballs save time!
- 1 cup BBQ sauce – Adds the signature smoky and tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup ketchup – Balances the BBQ sauce with sweetness.
- 1/4 cup honey – Enhances the sweetness of the sauce with a subtle depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – To loosen the sauce and add moisture.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami to the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – A touch of savory garlic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder – Complements the garlic with an aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For melting on top and adding richness.
- Green onions – For garnish, adding freshness and color.
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet, combine BBQ sauce, ketchup, honey, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Cook meatballs: Add frozen meatballs to the sauce. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Stir cooked pasta into the skillet with the meatballs and sauce. Mix well to coat.
- Add cheese and garnish: Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt. Garnish with green onions and serve warm.
Notes
- Customize with different pasta shapes: You can use your favorite pasta shape, like rotini or penne, to change up the texture.
- Use fresh meatballs: While frozen meatballs are convenient, fresh homemade meatballs can be used for an extra flavor boost.
- Spicy variation: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg