Vodka Spaghettios with Mini Meatballs

Name: Vodka Spaghettios with Mini Meatballs
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 bowls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 0.5 lb ground beef; 0.5 lb ground sausage or turkey; 1 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper; 0.5 tsp onion powder; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.25 tsp onion salt; 0.5 tsp dried parsley; 1 egg; 0.25 cup milk; 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 0.5 cup breadcrumbs; 0.25 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic; 4 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 shot vodka; 0.5 lb anelli pasta; 3 cups chicken broth; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 0.5 tsp onion powder; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp dried basil; 0.5 cup heavy cream; 0.5 cup tomato sauce; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

These Carbs Don't Count

Say goodbye to canned pasta and hello to these grown-up Vodka Spaghettios with Mini Meatballs. Made with tender beef and turkey meatballs, this dish is simmered in a rich, creamy vodka-tomato sauce and filled with tiny anelli pasta. The flavors are deepened with garlic, tomato paste, Parmesan, and just the right kick from a shot of vodka. This playful, nostalgic spin on a childhood favorite brings serious comfort with an elevated twist. Perfect for cozy nights or impressive weekend cooking, it’s indulgent, creamy, and full of flavor.

Vodka Spaghettios with Mini Meatballs

These Carbs Don't Count

Difficultymedium

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

For the Sauce

Instructions

0 of 11 done

Step 1
In a bowl, combine beef, sausage or turkey, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, onion salt, and dried parsley.
Step 2
Add in the beaten egg, milk, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly.
Step 3
Form into small meatballs and refrigerate for 1 hour to help them hold shape.
Step 4
Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the meatballs on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 5
In the same pan, add butter and a dash of olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Step 6
Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes before deglazing with the shot of vodka.
Step 7
Stir in anelli pasta and pour in chicken broth to cover. Bring to a boil.
Step 8
Season with additional salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and basil.
Step 9
Simmer for 10–14 minutes until the pasta is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 10
Stir in heavy cream, tomato sauce, and remaining Parmesan until creamy.
Step 11
Return the meatballs to the pan, stir gently, and serve hot.

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Nutrition

Per serving

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