Food recipes banana bread recipe dinner ideas chocolate chip cookie recipe meatloaf recipe chili recipe pancake recipe french toast recipe lasagna recipe allrecipes chicken breast recipes alfredo sauce recipe beef stew recipe chicken recipes chicken salad recipe easy dinner ideas ground beef recipes mac and cheese recipe old fashioned recipe sugar cookie recipe

Garlic Butter Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Linguine

by

Introduction

Craving a comforting pasta dish that combines the richness of creamy Parmesan sauce with the flavor-packed goodness of garlic butter meatballs? This Garlic Butter Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Linguine recipe is the ultimate indulgence! Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For the Creamy Parmesan Linguine:

  • 12 oz linguine
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Roll into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the Linguine

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  • In the same skillet used for the meatballs and sauce, pour in the heavy cream over medium heat.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

5. Combine Everything

  • Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce and toss to coat.
  • Gently add the cooked meatballs and drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top.

6. Serve and Garnish

  • Divide the creamy linguine and meatballs into bowls or plates.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

  1. Perfect Meatballs: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender and juicy.
  2. Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creamy texture.
  3. Customize: Add spinach or mushrooms to the creamy sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne are great alternatives.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make the meatballs and sauce ahead, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 620 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 35g

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a comforting and indulgent pasta dish that’s easy to make yet elegant enough for a dinner party. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this creamy delight is sure to impress.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy pasta? Share in the comments below!

Loved this recipe? Don’t forget to explore our other pasta and meatball creations for more inspiration!

Leave a Comment