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Spicy Buffalo Meatball Pasta

This Spicy Buffalo Meatball Pasta is bursting with bold flavors! Juicy meatballs tossed in tangy buffalo sauce and perfectly coated pasta make every bite irresistible.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef lean for best texture
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs plain or seasoned
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions white and green parts
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce your favorite brand or homemade
  • 8 ounces pasta penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly.
  • Form the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in a single layer and cook 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup pasta water.
  • Reduce heat to low and warm buffalo sauce in the skillet. Return meatballs to skillet and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  • Add drained pasta to skillet with meatballs and sauce. Toss gently to combine and coat pasta evenly.
  • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve hot and enjoy.

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • Medium Pot
  • Slotted spoon or tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Colander

Notes

  • For a cheesy twist, stir in 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar before serving.
  • Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Reduce heat by mixing buffalo sauce with tomato sauce for a milder flavor.
  • Meatballs can be baked at 400°F for 15-20 minutes as a hands-off cooking option.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze meatballs and pasta separately for longer storage.