One-Pot Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta

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Craving a hearty, flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup? This One-Pot Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta delivers rich, smoky flavor in under 30 minutes. Juicy meatballs, tender pasta, and a creamy BBQ-infused sauce come together in one skillet for a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and family-approved flavors, this dish is bound to become a regular on your dinner rotation

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

•  One-pot cleanup for convenience

•  Creamy, cheesy BBQ sauce loaded with smoky flavor

•  Family-friendly and budget-conscious

•  Uses pantry staples and frozen meatballs

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Components

• Frozen Meatballs (1 lb): Convenient protein that adds heartiness and rich flavor.

• Pasta (12 oz, penne or rotini): Holds sauce well and cooks directly in the pot, absorbing all the smoky, creamy goodness.

Cooking Liquid & Sauce Base

• Chicken Broth (3 cups): Provides depth and helps cook the pasta.

• Smoky BBQ Sauce (1 cup): Infuses the dish with a bold, tangy-sweet flavor and signature smokiness.

• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce.

Cheese Blend

• Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Offers sharp flavor and creamy melt.

• Mozzarella Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Melts smoothly for stretch and mild taste.

Seasonings

• Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): Enhances the smoky BBQ profile.

• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds savory depth.

• Onion Powder (1 tsp): Complements the garlic and rounds out the flavor.

• Salt & Pepper: For final taste adjustment.

Garnish

• Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use fresh meatballs for a quicker cook time

• Adjust spice level by adding cayenne or chipotle powder

• Swap proteins – this recipe works with shredded chicken or sausage too

• Thin sauce with extra broth if it becomes too thick

Variations and Customizations:

• Buffalo Twist: Swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and use blue cheese crumbles

• Tex-Mex Style: Add corn and black beans, and top with avocado

• Low-Carb Version: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cooked cauliflower

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based meatballs, dairy-free cream, and vegan cheese

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad

• Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli on the side

• Serve with iced tea or a cold beer for a casual, satisfying dinner

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; reheat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes! Just brown them before adding to the pot, or use pre-cooked meatballs for convenience.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky or hickory-flavored BBQ sauce complements the paprika and cheese well.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally during cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot.

One-Pot Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

BBQ Meatball Pasta Skillet – Smoky, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Tender meatballs, al dente pasta, and a creamy BBQ sauce come together in one pan for the ultimate easy, comforting dinner. Ready in 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights

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Ingredients

• 1 lb frozen meatballs

• 12 oz pasta

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Combine Base Ingredients

• In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, add:

  • 1 lb frozen meatballs

  • 3 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

• Stir everything together and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

2. Add Pasta

• Stir in 12 oz of uncooked pasta. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in liquid.

• Cover with a lid and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

3. Stir in Cheese

• Remove the pot from heat.

• Add ½ cup cheddar and ½ cup mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.

• Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

4. Serve and Garnish

• Spoon into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

• Serve hot and enjoy this ultra-satisfying one-pot meal!

Notes

• Avoid overcooking to keep pasta from becoming mushy

• Want more smoke? Add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked gouda cheese

• This recipe scales easily—double the ingredients for meal prep or a crowd

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One-Pot
• Cuisine: American

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