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## **How to Make One-Pot Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs**
1. In a large bowl, mix together the **ground meat**, **bread crumbs**, **Parmesan cheese**, **egg**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **smoked paprika**, and a pinch of **salt and pepper**.
2. Shape the mixture into **1-inch meatballs**, making about **20-25 meatballs**.
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### **Step 2: Brown the Meatballs**
1. Heat **olive oil** in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for about **3-4 minutes per side**, until browned but not fully cooked through.
3. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
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### **Step 3: Build the Sauce**
1. In the same pot, add the **chopped onion** and cook until softened, about **3-4 minutes**.
2. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another **1 minute**.
3. Stir in the **BBQ sauce** and **chicken broth**, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Bring to a simmer.
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### **Step 4: Cook the Pasta**
1. Add the **pasta** to the pot, making sure it’s covered by the sauce. If needed, add a little more broth or water to ensure it cooks evenly.
2. Return the **meatballs** to the pot, nestling them into the sauce and pasta.
3. Cover and simmer for **15-20 minutes**, or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked. Stir occasionally.
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### **Step 5: Add Creaminess & Serve**
1. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the **heavy cream** (or milk) to make the sauce creamy and luscious.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with **salt and pepper** as needed.
3. Garnish with **fresh parsley** or **basil** for a pop of color.
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## **Tips for Perfect One-Pot Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta**
✔ **Don’t Overcrowd the Pot** – Brown the meatballs in batches to ensure they get a nice sear.
✔ **Customize the BBQ Sauce** – Choose your favorite BBQ sauce or add a bit of **sriracha** for some heat.
✔ **Use Sturdy Pasta** – Opt for pasta shapes like **penne or rigatoni** that can hold up to the sauce.
✔ **Make It Ahead** – This dish is even better the next day, so consider making extra for leftovers.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This **One-Pot Smoky BBQ Meatball Pasta** is a **game-changer** for busy nights when you want a hearty, comforting dinner without all the fuss. With tender meatballs, smoky BBQ sauce, and creamy pasta, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
💬 **What’s your favorite pasta recipe? Let me know in the comments!** 🍝
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