Spaghetti & Meatball Bites Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bites combine all the comfort of traditional spaghetti and meatballs in a portable, party-friendly format. The spaghetti nests are crispy on the outside and soft inside, paired with juicy meatballs and rich marinara sauce. They’re simple to make, visually appealing, and perfect for entertaining or meal prepping. Plus, the recipe is versatile—you can swap proteins, adjust cheeses, or customize sauces to fit your taste.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Nests:

• 12 oz spaghetti

• 3 large eggs (divided)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella

• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan (divided, plus more for garnish)

• 3 cups marinara (divided)

• Cooking spray, for pan

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 cup bread crumbs

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)

• Kosher salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook spaghetti until al dente (about 8 minutes), then drain and rinse under cold water.

2. In a large bowl, toss the cooled spaghetti with 2 beaten eggs, shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and 1 cup marinara sauce.

3. Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray. Press the spaghetti into muffin cups using the bottom of a shot glass to form wells in the center. Bake for 15 minutes, then let cool. Press down nests if they puff up.

4. While nests bake, prepare meatballs: Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, remaining egg, garlic, remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, then roll into meatballs.

5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs for about 4 minutes per side, drain excess fat, and add remaining 2 cups marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Spoon a meatball onto each spaghetti nest. Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley, then serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 bites

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.

• Cheese Twist: Add ricotta to the nests or mix mozzarella with provolone for different flavors.

• Spicy Kick: Stir red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

• Whole Wheat Option: Swap regular spaghetti for whole wheat for a healthier version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze the bites in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make Spaghetti & Meatball Bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti nests ahead and store them in the fridge. Assemble and bake meatballs just before serving.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked frozen meatballs can be used; just adjust simmering time in the marinara sauce to heat through.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or lentil-based meatballs.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

While spaghetti works best for nests, other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine can be adapted.

How do I prevent nests from falling apart?

Mixing eggs and cheese into the spaghetti before baking helps bind the nests together. Press them firmly into muffin cups for stability.

Can I bake the bites all at once?

Yes, but bake nests first separately, then assemble with meatballs to ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking the pasta.

Can I add extra sauce?

Yes, spoon additional marinara on top of the bites before serving for more flavor.

How long do they keep in the fridge?

Bites can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze them after assembly?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze nests and meatballs separately, then assemble after reheating.

Are these suitable for parties?

Perfectly! Their bite-sized portions make them easy for guests to grab and enjoy without utensils.

Conclusion

Spaghetti & Meatball Bites are a playful, crowd-pleasing appetizer that transforms a classic comfort food into a fun, easy-to-serve treat. The combination of crispy spaghetti nests, juicy meatballs, and rich marinara sauce creates a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. Whether for parties, family dinners, or quick snacks, these bites are versatile, customizable, and sure to impress.