Homemade Spaghetti O’s with Beef Meatballs (Allergen-Friendly)

Homemade Spaghetti O’s with Egg-Free Beef Meatballs and a Hidden Veggie – A Cozy, Kid-Friendly Classic

If you grew up with a can of Spaghetti O’s in the pantry, you’re not alone. There’s something so comforting about those little pasta O’s in a sweet tomato sauce, especially when paired with tender meatballs. But as a parent, I often look for ways to recreate childhood favorites using real, wholesome ingredients — and that’s how this homemade Spaghetti O’s with beef meatballs recipe was born. I wanted to make it in a way that every kid can enjoy, including those with allergies. The meatballs are made with no eggs, breadcrumbs or dairy, but still comes out amazing. It’s everything you love about the original, but made from scratch: soft pasta rings, a simple tomato sauce, and juicy mini meatballs and lets not forget the hidden veggie I snuck in there. It’s a meal both kids and adults can enjoy, and it’s surprisingly easy to pull together on a weeknight.

Why Homemade Spaghetti O’s with Beef Meatballs (Allergen-Friendly) for Kids?

Homemade Spaghetti O’s with beef meatballs is a perfect family-friendly meal, especially for little ones who are just starting to explore more flavors and textures. Here’s why it’s a go-to favorite:

• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

• Allergen-friendly: The meatballs are egg-free, gluten-free and dairy-free, making them suitable for kids with common allergies or sensitivities.

• No preservatives or additives: Unlike the canned version, this homemade meal is made from real, whole ingredients — no mystery items, no extra sodium, and no artificial colors or flavors.

• Soft textures for little mouths: The pasta and tender meatballs are easy to chew, making this dish suitable for toddlers and older babies who are learning to self-feed.

• Always a hit: Kids love the fun pasta shapes and sweet, mild tomato sauce, it’s comforting, familiar, and nourishing all at once.

Tips for Success:

To make Homemade Spaghetti O’s with Beef Meatballs (Allergen-Friendly) as smooth and stress-free as possible, here are a few tried-and-true tips:

• Mix the meatball mixture thoroughly: Don’t be shy about working the ground beef well — really combine the ingredients so the meatballs hold their shape and stay tender.

• Prep the meatballs ahead of time: Rolling the meatballs earlier in the day can save you time during dinner rush. Store them covered in the fridge until ready to cook.

• Use your favorite seasonings: Feel free to stick with the garlic and onion powder listed, or customize the flavor with Italian herbs, a dash of paprika or oregano.

• Oil your hands before rolling: A light coating of oil on your hands makes it much easier to roll the meatballs without sticking — and helps create smooth, round shapes.

• Keep the meatballs small: Aim for miniature, bite-sized meatballs to mimic classic Spaghetti O’s. Smaller meatballs cook faster and are easier for kids to eat.

• Time it right: In the last 15 minutes of meatball cooking, begin boiling your pasta. That way, everything finishes at the same time, and you can stir the pasta right into the warm sauce and meatballs for the freshest, coziest meal.

Serving Tips:

• Serve warm in bowls with a sprinkle of cheese or parmesan.

• Pair with steamed veggies or a side salad for a full meal.

• For babies or toddlers, chop the meatballs smaller and serve in a suction bowl.

Ingredients & Substitutions: 

Lean Ground Beef- You can add ground pork or turkey if preferred. If you want to make the meatball even more tender you can add 1 egg.

Anelli Pasta Rings is what I used, but if you can’t find them you can use any small pasta shapes you enjoy.

Zucchini- This vegetable brings in moisture and makes the meatball softer, you can replace with potato as well.

Water used for sauce- You can replace water with broth of choice.

What You Need:

Grater for zucchini

Two Pots– one for pasta, one for meatballs

Mixing Bowl

If you enjoyed this recipe, here are some more family-friendly meals you should check out:

Tender Chuck Roast & Green Beans

Egg-Free Chicken Bites

Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs

Copycat Lipton Chicken Noodle Soup