Hunter’s Chicken Spaghetti & Meatballs

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A Smoky, Cheesy Twist on Classic Comfort Food

Hunter’s Chicken Spaghetti & Meatballs combines the deep, smoky richness of BBQ sauce with the familiar comfort of spaghetti and meatballs. This dish is a perfect mashup of hearty chicken meatballs, crispy bacon, a tangy BBQ-tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness all brought together over al dente spaghetti. It’s a meal that brings indulgence and comfort together in a single bite. Whether you’re feeding your family on a cozy weeknight or impressing guests with a creative twist on Italian fare, this dish never fails to deliver.

 Ingredients (US Measurements)

For the Meatballs:

  • 12 oz chicken sausages (casings removed)
  • 3 tsp garlic purée
  • 1 tbsp garlic granules
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp dried oregano

For the Pasta:

  • 10.5 oz spaghetti

For the Sauce:

  • 5.5 oz diced bacon
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 tsp garlic purée
  • 1 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

Topping:

  • 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

 Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

 Calories

  • Per Serving: ~511 kcal (based on a 4-serving yield)

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sausage meat with 3 tsp of garlic purée, 1 tbsp garlic granules, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, and 2 tsp dried oregano.
  2. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until all the seasonings are fully incorporated.
  3. Using damp hands, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  3. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water to help thicken the sauce later.
  4. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

  1. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the meatballs in batches (avoid overcrowding) and cook for 7–8 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Remove cooked meatballs and set aside on a clean plate.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add the diced bacon. Cook until browned and crispy.
  2. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the 3 tsp of garlic purée and 1 tbsp of tomato purée. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to develop flavor.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of BBQ sauce and stir well to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

  1. Return the meatballs to the skillet and nestle them into the sauce.
  2. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes to absorb flavor.
  3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Use tongs to gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
  4. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top, cover the pan, and allow it to melt for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Optionally, broil under the oven for 2–3 minutes for a golden cheese crust.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Plate the spaghetti and meatballs in shallow bowls.
  2. Spoon extra sauce over each serving and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, or chili flakes if desired.

 Expert Tips

  • Sausage Selection: Use high-quality chicken sausages with strong seasoning to maximize flavor. If you prefer, ground chicken can be used, but you may need to increase spices.
  • Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with cheese combinations. Mozzarella provides stretch and melt, while cheddar gives a sharp tang. Gouda or provolone could also be used for smoky depth.
  • BBQ Sauce Flexibility: Sweet, smoky, or spicy—choose the BBQ sauce that fits your flavor preference. A bourbon-infused sauce can add depth.
  • Make Ahead: Meatballs can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours or frozen for up to a month. Defrost before cooking.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
  • Add Veggies: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the sauce for extra nutrients and color.
  • Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, add chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers.

 Final Thoughts

Hunter’s Chicken Spaghetti & Meatballs is an indulgent yet approachable dish that brings together everything we love about comfort food—rich, smoky sauce, hearty protein, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers deep flavors and satisfying textures. From the juicy meatballs to the cheesy finish, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner, it’s a fusion of American BBQ flair and Italian pasta tradition that you’ll want to make again and again.

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