Description

Spaghetti & Meatball Bites are a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic spaghetti and meatballs. Crispy spaghetti nests hold savory meatballs and marinara sauce, creating a delicious, easy-to-eat appetizer perfect for parties, game nights, or a quick snack.

Ingredients

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 sauce (divided)

Cooking spray, for pan

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

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook spaghetti until al dente (about 8 minutes), then drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, toss the cooled spaghetti with 2 beaten eggs, shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and 1 cup marinara sauce.
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.
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.
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.
Spoon a meatball onto each spaghetti nest. Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley, then serve.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bite
Calories: 150
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg