Low FODMAP Stovetop Medium

Low FODMAP Spaghetti and Meatballs

Classic Italian-American spaghetti and meatballs with homemade marinara sauce. A family-friendly low FODMAP dinner everyone will love.

Prep Time
25m
Cook Time
30m
Total Time
55m
Servings
4
Low FODMAP Spaghetti and Meatballs

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, 1 tablespoon parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

  2. 2

    If using mozzarella, form meat around small cubes of cheese to create stuffed meatballs. Otherwise, roll into 12 meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter.

  3. 3

    Heat garlic-infused olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  4. 4

    Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes.

  5. 5

    Add crushed tomatoes, basil, and sugar if using. Reduce heat to medium-low.

  6. 6

    Simmer for 15-20 minutes, turning meatballs occasionally, until cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).

  7. 7

    Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain.

  8. 8

    Toss spaghetti with a few spoonfuls of sauce and remaining Parmesan.

  9. 9

    Serve spaghetti topped with meatballs and extra sauce.

  10. 10

    Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan.

FODMAP Notes

Uses garlic-infused olive oil for garlic flavor without FODMAPs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta eliminate wheat-based fructans. Aged Parmesan and mozzarella are low in lactose. Keep tomato serving reasonable.

Tips

  • 💡 Don't overmix the meatball mixture - it makes them tough
  • 💡 Meatballs can be made ahead and frozen raw or cooked
  • 💡 Stuff with mozzarella for a fun surprise center
  • 💡 Use a mix of beef and pork for more flavor

Recipe Notes

Nothing says comfort like a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. This low FODMAP version uses garlic-infused oil for that essential Italian flavor and optional mozzarella-stuffed meatballs for an extra treat.

Substitutions

  • Meat: Use any combination of beef, pork, turkey, or chicken
  • Pasta: Any gluten-free long pasta works
  • Cheese: Skip the mozzarella center for simpler meatballs

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Meatballs and sauce keep 4 days separately
  • Freezer: Freeze meatballs for up to 3 months
  • Reheating: Reheat meatballs in sauce over low heat

FODMAP Stacking Note

One serving (3 meatballs + pasta + sauce) is low FODMAP. The tomato sauce is portioned appropriately. Avoid doubling up on servings.

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