Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe
This Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs recipe served over creamy Parmesan linguine is a delightful and comforting meal perfect for weeknights or special dinners. Juicy, flavorful meatballs baked to perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce sit atop tender linguine tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, creating a heavenly combination of flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 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
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
- 8 oz (225g) linguine (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into small, approximately 1-inch diameter meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and have a golden-brown crust.
- Cook Linguine: While the meatballs bake, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Toss Meatballs in Sauce: Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the garlic butter and gently toss to coat, allowing them to absorb the buttery garlic flavor.
- Prepare Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In a pot over low heat, warm the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss to evenly coat the pasta with the rich sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan linguine and top with the garlic butter meatballs. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- You can substitute almond flour for breadcrumbs to make this recipe low-carb.
- Ground beef, turkey, or chicken can be used depending on your preference.
- Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even baking.
- If you prefer, the meatballs can also be pan-fried instead of baked for a crispier exterior.
- The creamy sauce can be thickened further by simmering slightly longer if desired.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds color and a fresh herbal note.
Keywords: garlic butter meatballs, creamy Parmesan linguine, baked meatballs, easy Italian dinner, comfort food pasta
