Dodecyl benzenesulfonic acid functionalized silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles (γ-Fe2O3@SiO2-DDBSA) were readily prepared and identified as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of a library of spirooxindole-pyrimidine derivatives by three-component condensation reaction of barbituric acids, isatins and cyclohexane-1,3-diones. The aqueous reaction medium, easy recovery of the catalyst using an external magnet, and high yields make the protocol sustainable and economic.