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SpaghettiOs with Mini Meatballs are the ultimate throwback meal elevated with a wholesome plant-based twist. Rich marinara, soft pasta rings, and juicy mini meatballs come together in one comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug from childhood. With everything cooked in a single pot and ready in about 30 minutes, this is weeknight comfort done right.
This recipe was my go-to after long studio days. It reminds me of my favorite after-school snack growing up but better in every way now.
Ingredients
- Vegan ground sausage: adds protein and texture make sure to choose a variety that forms well like Beyond or Impossible
- Vegan Italian style breadcrumbs: bind the meatballs and give that herby flavor make sure they are fully plant based
- Garlic and basil: fresh and fragrant these aromatics bring life to both the sauce and the meatballs
- Vegan egg replacer: helps hold the meatballs together try JUST Egg or flax mixed with water if needed
- Avocado oil: has a neutral flavor and high smoke point perfect for browning the meatballs
- Shallot: gives a milder onion base that blends smoothly into the sauce
- Vegan friendly white cooking wine: adds acidity and depth if unavailable use broth
- Marinara sauce: use your favorite store brand or homemade for a saucy tomato base
- Annelleti pasta: fun round shapes that make this dish iconic sub with macaroni if needed
- Vegetable broth: adds flavor and helps cook the pasta evenly
- Sugar: just a touch balances the acidity of the tomato
- Red chili flakes: completely optional for a subtle kick
- Vegan parmesan shreds: melt into the sauce and add richness pick a sharp style like Good Planet
- Parsley: fresh and green adds a final bright note use extra as garnish
- Kosher salt and black pepper: essential seasonings to taste
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Form the Meatballs:
- Mix vegan sausage breadcrumbs garlic basil and egg replacer in a large bowl until well combined then roll into mini meatballs using about two teaspoons each you should get around thirty five to forty pieces
- Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat avocado oil in a large pan over medium high then add the meatballs in batches cooking five to seven minutes until golden brown and heated through remove and set aside
- Start the Sauce Base:
- In the same pan sauté shallot and garlic for one to two minutes until softened and fragrant do not let them burn
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in white wine and scrape up browned bits from the bottom this adds flavor and prevents sticking
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add marinara uncooked pasta vegetable broth sugar and red pepper flakes stir often and let it simmer twelve to fourteen minutes until pasta is tender
- Finish the Dish:
- Stir in vegan parmesan and parsley until cheese melts then return the cooked meatballs to the pot and combine gently
- Serve Warm:
- Spoon into bowls and garnish with extra vegan parmesan and parsley adjust salt and pepper to your taste
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days it reheats well and maintains flavor over time
Ingredient Substitutions
If annelleti is hard to find macaroni or ditalini will work just as well and if you are missing vegan parmesan swap in nutritional yeast or vegan mozzarella for a melty touch
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Serving Suggestions
Pair with garlic toast or a green salad for a full meal this is also great served in mugs for cozy snacking on the couch
Cultural Context
SpaghettiOs were a pantry staple in many households but this version skips preservatives and animal products while keeping that classic comfort intact
I always smile when I stir in the annelleti pasta the shape brings back memories of Saturday cartoons and lunch at grandma’s table.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I substitute the annelleti pasta?
Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like macaroni or ditalini if annelleti is not available.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → Can I freeze the mini meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked mini meatballs for up to 3 months.
- → What’s a substitute for vegan parmesan?
You can use nutritional yeast or other vegan cheeses like vegan mozzarella.
- → Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, making this a true one-pot dish.
- → What wine should I use?
Use vegan-friendly dry white cooking wine or substitute with vegetable broth.