Name: Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 8 oz (225g) linguine (or your preferred pasta); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Introduction

Enjoy a comforting and flavorful dinner with these easy garlic butter meatballs served over creamy Parmesan linguine. This dish blends tender meatballs with a rich garlic butter sauce and a luscious, cheesy pasta for a satisfying meal.

A white bowl holds creamy fettuccine pasta as the base layer, its smooth, light yellow strands thickly coated in cheese sauce. On top are eight round, browned meatballs evenly spaced, each covered with a melted light beige cheese sauce that drips slightly down the sides. Small green parsley pieces sprinkle over the meatballs and pasta, adding a fresh touch. A fine dusting of grated Parmesan cheese is scattered around the meatballs, giving a slightly rough texture on the surface. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured surface, and the lighting highlights the rich textures of the sauce and meatballs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
8 oz (225g) linguine (or your preferred pasta)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 7: Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter, allowing them to soak in the flavor.
Step 8: In a pot, heat the heavy cream over low heat. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 9: Combine the creamy sauce with the cooked linguine, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 10: Serve the creamy Parmesan linguine topped with garlic butter meatballs and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For a low-carb option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour in the meatball mixture.
Use turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meatballs without compromising flavor.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the sauce’s creaminess and taste when added just before serving.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and creamy linguine separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid overcooking when reheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy yellow pasta arranged in a circular nest, topped with eight browned meatballs each coated lightly with melted cheese and sprinkled with small green herb pieces. The pasta strands appear smooth and glossy, covered evenly with a rich sauce, while the meatballs show a crispy texture with a golden-brown crust. Some grated cheese and herbs are scattered over the dish, adding texture and color contrast. The setting includes a wooden surface underneath the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine pairs nicely with this sauce, feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta shape you prefer.