One-Pan Meatball Spaghetti with Basil Recipe

Introduction

This one-pan pasta recipe combines juicy meatballs, a rich tomato sauce, and tender spaghetti all cooked together for maximum flavor and minimal fuss. It’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp rapeseed oil
• 12 meatballs (300g)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
• 1 large bunch of basil, finely chopped, plus a few whole leaves
• 225g dried spaghetti

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the rapeseed oil in a deep, wide frying pan or casserole dish over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 5 minutes, turning them until they are browned all over.
2. Step 2: Add the finely chopped onion and garlic to the pan. Fry everything together for about 8 minutes until the onion softens.
3. Step 3: Stir in the ketchup, chopped tomatoes, chopped basil, and 400 ml of water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Step 4: Add the dried spaghetti to the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
5. Step 5: Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with whole basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh meatballs or pre-cooked ones; adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re heated through.
• Try swapping basil for oregano or parsley if you prefer a different herb flavor.
• For a richer sauce, add a splash of cream or a handful of grated Parmesan just before serving.
• Make it vegetarian by replacing meatballs with plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a small splash of water if the sauce is too thick.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine. Just adjust cooking time as needed since different shapes vary in cooking duration.

Do I need to precook the meatballs?

It’s best to brown the meatballs first to develop flavor and ensure they cook evenly in the sauce. If using pre-cooked meatballs, simply heat them through during the sauce simmering step.

One-Pan Meatball Spaghetti with Basil Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 124 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A delicious and easy one-pan pasta recipe featuring juicy meatballs simmered in a rich tomato and basil sauce, served with perfectly cooked spaghetti all in one pot for minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs and Sauce

• 1 tbsp rapeseed oil
• 12 meatballs (300g)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
• 1 large bunch of basil, finely chopped, plus a few whole leaves

Pasta

• 225g dried spaghetti
• 400ml water

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Instructions

1. Heat the oil and brown meatballs: Heat the rapeseed oil in a deep, wide frying pan or casserole dish over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 5 minutes, turning them frequently to brown all sides evenly.
2. Sauté onions and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and garlic to the pan with the browned meatballs. Fry for about 8 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
3. Add sauce ingredients and bring to boil: Stir in the ketchup, chopped tomatoes, chopped basil, and 400ml water. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring everything is well combined.
4. Cook the pasta: Add the dried spaghetti directly into the pan, making sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce and water. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. The pasta should be tender and the sauce should reduce to a thick consistency.
5. Season and garnish to serve: Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the dish with fresh whole basil leaves before serving for added aroma and presentation.

Notes

• Use a wide, deep pan or casserole dish to allow the spaghetti to fit well and cook evenly.
• Stir occasionally during pasta cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
• You can substitute meatballs with vegetarian or vegan alternatives if preferred.
• Adjust the amount of water if your sauce is too thick or pasta is undercooked.
• This recipe is great for a quick weeknight dinner with minimal washing up.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: one-pan pasta, meatballs, spaghetti, tomato sauce, basil, easy dinner, quick meal