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Meatball & Cheddar Pasta Skillet

Meatball & Cheddar Pasta Skillet: Easy Comfort in One Pan

Experience a comforting and fully customizable Meatball & Cheddar Pasta Skillet, combining smoky BBQ and creamy ranch flavors in one delicious meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 package frozen meatballs Feel free to swap for turkey, chicken, or plant-based options.
For the Sauce
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite flavor.
  • ½ cup ranch dressing Consider using a cashew-based ranch for a dairy-free alternative.
For the Pasta Base
  • 3 cups cooked pasta Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
For the Creamy Finish
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to use Monterey Jack or gouda.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add frozen meatballs and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden-brown.
  2. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring gently with the meatballs. Increase heat to high and bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add 3 cups of cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring well. Allow simmering for another 3-4 minutes, letting the pasta absorb the broth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup of ranch dressing with ½ cup of BBQ sauce until smooth. Pour over the pasta and meatballs, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet mixture. Reduce heat to low and cover for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
  6. Serve into bowls, garnishing with chopped green onions or BBQ sauce. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use high-quality frozen meatballs for best flavor. Adjust BBQ sauce and ranch ratio to taste. Sneak in leftover vegetables for added nutrition. Freeze well for up to 2 months.

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