Gather around, food lovers! There’s nothing quite like sharing a hearty meal that brings the family together, and our Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta is the perfect dish to do just that. Imagine succulent meatballs glazed with a rich, smoky BBQ sauce, resting on a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. This delightful combination brings the comfort of home cooking to your table with a touch of southern charm. It’s an ideal recipe for cozy family dinners, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones. So, let’s dive into this mouth-watering creation that promises to become a cherished favorite.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 12 ounces pasta of your choice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and sear until all sides are browned. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven, and bake for 20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the BBQ glaze by combining the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, and the sauce is slightly thickened. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and brush generously with the BBQ glaze.
- Toss the cooked pasta with a small amount of the BBQ glaze to infuse the flavor.
- Serve the glazed meatballs over the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
- If you prefer a lighter option, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
- For a more intense smoky flavor, add an extra teaspoon of smoked paprika to the BBQ glaze.
Storage Instructions
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce, if necessary.
Suggested Pairings
This Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. For beverages, consider serving with iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of red wine to complement the smoky flavors.
Thank you for joining us on this culinary adventure with Zynahz. Our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen by sharing family-friendly recipes that inspire. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta as much as we do. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations with us and spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family. Stay connected with us for more delicious recipes – follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter. Here’s to many more delightful meals together!
