Grown Up Spaghetti O’s & Meatballs

This is the nostalgic comfort of childhood Spaghetti O’s… but richer, heartier, and absolutely packed with flavor. Tender pasta, saucy marinara, and big Italian-style meatballs all simmered together into one cozy, spoonable bowl of comfort. It’s fun, filling, and totally weeknight-friendly.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

• 40 oz marinara sauce

• 4 cups chicken stock

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 lb round noodles or ditalini

• 2 lbs Italian-style meatballs

• Freshly grated parmesan, for topping

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Stir in the 6-ounce can of tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly and deepen in color.

3. Pour in the 40 ounces of marinara sauce and 4 cups of chicken stock. Stir to combine.

4. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Stir in the round noodles or ditalini and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick.

6. Add in the Italian-style meatballs. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to a simmer. Let cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are heated through.

7. Ladle into bowls and top generously with freshly grated parmesan before serving.