Cheesy Meatball Chili Spaghetti – A Flavorful One-Pot Meal

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Have you ever craved a meal that wraps you in warmth with every bite? One that fills your kitchen with rich, inviting aromas and satisfies your hunger in a way that only a home-cooked meal can? If so, this Cheesy Meatball Chili Spaghetti might just become your new go-to dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or hosting friends for a cozy dinner, this one-pot wonder delivers everything you love about comfort food: savory meatballs, spicy chili, hearty spaghetti, and a crown of melted cheddar cheese.

And the best part? You can let your crockpot do the heavy lifting or cook it on the stovetop if you’re short on time. Either way, you’ll end up with a cheesy, flavor-packed dish that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Meatball Chili Spaghetti

The Best of Both Worlds: Chili and Spaghetti

This recipe merges two comfort food classics – spicy chili and hearty spaghetti – into a single dish that packs serious flavor.

Crockpot or Stove-Top Friendly

Whether you prefer the convenience of a slow cooker or love hands-on stove-top cooking, this dish has you covered with simple adaptations for both methods.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or packing lunches.

Family-Friendly and Customizable

Adjust the spice level, switch up the protein, or add your favorite toppings. It’s versatile enough to suit every taste.

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Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Main Ingredients Table

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Ground beef or chicken	1 ½ pounds	Choose your preferred protein
Yellow onion	1, chopped	Adds sweetness and depth
Garlic cloves	2, chopped	For a bold, aromatic base
Chili powder	2 tablespoons	Brings the heat
Smoked paprika	1 tablespoon	Adds a smoky undertone
Ground cumin	2 teaspoons	Earthy, warm flavor
Cayenne pepper	½ teaspoon	Optional, adjust to taste
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon	Enhances overall flavor
Kosher salt	2 teaspoons (divided)	For seasoning
Fire-roasted diced tomatoes (can)	28 oz	Rich, slightly smoky taste
Tomato paste	⅓ cup	Thickens the sauce
Beef broth	2 cups	Adds savory depth
Poblano pepper	1, chopped	Mild heat and flavor
Pickled jalapeños	¼ cup, chopped	Tangy kick
Black beans (can), drained	1 can	Boosts protein and texture
Dry spaghetti	¾ pound	Broken in half if needed
Shredded cheddar cheese	2 cups	The finishing cheesy touch
Fresh cilantro	½ cup, chopped	Fresh garnish
Green onion	¼ cup, chopped	Adds brightness

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How to Make Cheesy Meatball Chili Spaghetti

Step-by-Step: Crockpot Method

1. Mix and Shape the Meatballs

• Combine ground meat, chopped onion, garlic, spices, and 1 teaspoon salt in a large bowl.
• Use your hands to mix thoroughly.
• Roll into 15-16 meatballs, about 1 tablespoon each.

2. Assemble in the Crockpot

• Place the meatballs into your slow cooker.
• Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chopped poblano, and pickled jalapeños.
• Add a pinch of salt and stir gently.

3. Slow Cook the Magic

• Cover and cook:
  • On low: 3-4 hours
  • On high: 1-2 hours

4. Add Pasta and Beans

• Switch to high heat.
• Stir in black beans and dry spaghetti.
• Pour in 1 cup of water and press pasta into the sauce.
• Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway.

5. Top with Cheese

• Sprinkle cheddar over the top.
• Let it melt for 10-15 minutes with the lid on.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Spoon meatballs and spaghetti into bowls.
• Top with fresh cilantro and green onions.

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Step-by-Step: Stove Top (Dutch Oven) Method

1. Prepare the Meatballs

• Mix ground meat, onion, garlic, spices, and salt.
• Form into 15-16 tablespoon-sized meatballs.

2. Cook in the Dutch Oven

• Arrange meatballs in a large Dutch oven.
• Add tomatoes, paste, broth, poblano, jalapeños.
• Stir, season, and cover.

3. Slow Roast

• Preheat oven to 325°F.
• Roast covered for 2.5 to 3 hours.

4. Add Final Touches

• Raise oven to 425°F.
• Stir in black beans.
• Top with shredded cheddar.
• Roast uncovered for 10-15 minutes.

5. Prepare the Spaghetti

• While cheese is melting, boil the pasta separately.
• Drain and set aside.

6. Plate and Garnish

• Serve chili meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti.
• Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and green onion.

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Tips for Success

Choose the Right Protein

• Ground beef offers richness, while chicken keeps it lighter.
• Want something leaner? Try ground turkey.

Spice to Your Taste

• Adjust cayenne and jalapeños to your heat preference.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

• Keep an eye when adding spaghetti directly to the slow cooker.
• Stir halfway to prevent sticking.

Make It Your Own

• Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend.
• Add corn, diced bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veg.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~550 kcal
Protein	~30g
Carbohydrates	~45g
Fats	~28g
Fiber	~8g
Serving Size	1 of 6

Note: These are estimates and can vary based on ingredient substitutions.

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Storage and Reheating

Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Freeze meatballs and sauce separately from pasta for best texture.
• Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Reheating

• Microwave individual servings or reheat in a saucepan.
• Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

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FAQs: Cheesy Meatball Chili Spaghetti

What makes this Cheesy Meatball Chili Spaghetti a one-pot meal?

You’re combining protein, starch, and veggies in one dish. No need for extra sides, though a simple salad pairs well if you want something fresh.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. It stores and reheats well, so it’s perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can swap meatballs for plant-based alternatives and use veggie broth. Add extra beans or lentils to boost protein.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar offers bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with a mix of cheeses.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, but keep an eye on cooking time. Thicker pastas may need a few extra minutes, while thin noodles can overcook quickly.

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Final Thoughts + Call to Action

You’ve just discovered a hearty, flavor-packed dish that ticks every box: easy prep, rich taste, family appeal, and flexible cooking methods. This Cheesy Meatball Chili Spaghetti isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience of comfort and bold flavor wrapped in one saucy, cheesy dish.

Now it’s your turn. Grab your ingredients, fire up your crockpot or oven, and let the magic begin. Once you’ve tried it, come back and share your version. Did you switch up the spices? Try a different cheese? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—and don’t forget to share this recipe with a fellow comfort food lover.

Your next go-to dinner is just one pot away. Let’s get cooking

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