Go Back
spaghettios with mini meatballs, homemade spaghettios copycat recipe

Homemade Spaghettios Copycat Recipe

5 from 6 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 people

Equipment

  • 1 large pot

Ingredients
  

Spaghettios

  • 16 oz anellini pasta
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 28 oz tomato sauce
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika optional
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • grated parmesan cheese to taste

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp ketchup
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Meatballs

  • Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix together until well combined. Form mini meatballs, about the size of a Hershey's kiss.
  • Add meatballs to skillet over medium heat and sear until brown on all sides. Add a splash of water, cover and continue to cook on low heat until fully cooked through.

Spaghettios

  • Place a large pot over medium heat. Add butter and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  • Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, sugar, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper. If you prefer a thicker sauce, use 3 cups of broth. If you prefer a thinner sauce, use 4 cups of broth. Stir well, then bring to a boil.
  • Add the pasta and reduce the heat to medium-low. Make sure the pasta is completely covered in the sauce/broth. Let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot. 
  • Once the pasta is fully cooked, add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
  • Add in the mini meatballs, cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Taste and adjust the amount of seasonings, as needed. Serve with more grated parmesan on top. Enjoy! ¡Buen provecho!

Notes

Tips:
  • It's best to use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese. It will melt much better and taste much better too.
  • If you can't find annellini pasta (O-shaped pasta rings) you can use dilatini or orzo instead.
  • This pasta freezes well. Store leftovers in the freezer for a quick and easy meal anytime.
  • Kids love this dish! Pack in a thermos for yummy school lunches.
Keyword homemade spaghettios, spaghettios copycat recipe, spaghettios recipe