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One-Pot Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta

One-Pot Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta

This one-pot smoky BBQ meatball pasta is a cozy, flavor-packed meal made with tender meatballs, creamy barbecue sauce, and melty cheese. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that delivers bold, comforting flavors with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb frozen meatballs beef, turkey, or plant-based
  • 12 oz pasta penne or rotini
For the Sauce
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Finish
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. In a large pot or deep skillet, combine frozen meatballs, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, heavy cream, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
  3. Add the uncooked pasta, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
  4. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For extra smokiness, add a pinch of additional smoked paprika. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth or cream.