How much spaghetti do you make for one person?

For a single serving, 2 ounces (about 56g) of dry spaghetti is just right. That’s roughly the diameter of a quarter if you hold the pasta in your hand. Once cooked, it yields about 1 to 1½ cups, ideal for one bowl of spaghetti and meatballs for one without leftovers.

How much spaghetti and meatballs per person?

For a balanced meal, pair 2 oz of dry spaghetti with 3–4 small meatballs made from 4 oz of ground meat. This combo gives you the perfect single serving of protein, carbs, and flavor, no guesswork needed.

How many meatballs for one portion?

Three to four meatballs (about 1 to 1½ inches wide) make a standard portion. That’s around 20–25g of protein if using turkey or beef. You’ll get great flavor and fullness without overdoing it, which makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner for one.

Is one box of spaghetti enough for two people?

Yes, most standard boxes contain 16 oz of dry spaghetti. That’s enough for eight single servings , or four generous two-person meals with meatballs. So you can easily portion out what you need and store the rest for your next one-pot pasta night.

Can I freeze leftover spaghetti and meatballs for one?

Absolutely, just let it cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of water on the stove or in the microwave. Tip: freezing in individual portions makes it even easier to grab a healthy solo meal on busy nights.

Spaghetti and Meatballs for One | Quick & Protein-Packed

Name: Classic One Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs for One
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 oz ground turkey (93% lean); 2 oz dry spaghetti (about a small handful); 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup water or low-sodium broth; 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (plus extra for serving); 1 tsp olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp finely chopped onion (or 1/4 tsp onion powder); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/8 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp dried oregano or basil (optional); Crushed red pepper or fresh herbs for topping (optional)

Description

A cozy, one-pot spaghetti and meatballs for one, high-protein, quick, and minimal cleanup. Made with pantry staples in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

4 oz ground turkey (93% lean)

2 oz dry spaghetti (about a small handful)

1/2 cup crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup water or low-sodium broth

1 tbsp grated Parmesan (plus extra for serving)

1 tsp olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tbsp finely chopped onion (or 1/4 tsp onion powder)

1/4 tsp salt

1/8 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp dried oregano or basil (optional)

Crushed red pepper or fresh herbs for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine ground turkey with salt, pepper, Parmesan, and optional herbs. Mix and roll into 4 meatballs.

2. Heat olive oil in a small saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and sear 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned.

3. Add garlic and onion to the pan. Sauté for 1 minute to release flavor.

4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and water or broth. Add dry spaghetti (broken in half) and gently submerge into the liquid.

5. Arrange meatballs on top. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 12–14 minutes, stirring once or twice, until pasta is tender and meatballs are fully cooked.

6. Turn off heat. Stir in another tablespoon of Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning.

7. Serve hot in a bowl with extra cheese, herbs, or chili flakes if desired.

Notes

Use ground beef, chicken, or plant-based options instead of turkey.

Add a handful of spinach or zucchini in the last 5 minutes for extra fiber.

To make low-carb, substitute hearts of palm noodles or spiralized zucchini.

Freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 482
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: spaghetti and meatballs for one, one pot pasta, high-protein pasta