Description
This Spaghetti O’s with Meatballs recipe combines tender plant-based meatballs and small pasta rings simmered in a rich tomato sauce flavored with fresh herbs and natural seasonings. It is a comforting, quick, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples, this dish offers a nostalgic taste that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb plant-based ground meat
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Tomato Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- Salt, to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz small pasta rings (or gluten-free pasta rings)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Plant-based cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a bowl, combine the plant-based ground meat, minced garlic, minced onion, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), natural gelling agent, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape and Sear the Meatballs: Form small, bite-sized meatballs about the size of a walnut. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides until they are cooked through and golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a separate saucepan, warm olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the crushed tomatoes, apple cider vinegar (natural), fresh basil, and salt. Simmer gently on low heat to develop a rich, well-rounded flavor.
- Cook the Pasta Rings: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta rings and cook until just tender, approximately 7-9 minutes or according to package instructions for al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Everything: Gently stir the browned meatballs into the simmering tomato sauce, allowing them to absorb the flavors. Fold in the cooked pasta rings, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Spaghetti O’s with Meatballs hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of plant-based cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Ensure meatballs are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Do not overcook pasta; keep it al dente for perfect texture.
- Simmer the sauce gently to enhance natural tomato sweetness.
- Use fresh herbs when possible for brighter flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Spaghetti Os, Plant-Based Meatballs, Tomato Sauce, Plant-Based, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food, Gluten Free
