These Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs are a tasty treat, packed with flavor and swimming in a rich garlic butter sauce. They’re served over creamy Parmesan linguine—yum!
Trust me, every bite feels like a warm hug. I love making this when I want a comforting dinner without a fuss. Plus, who can resist meatballs drenched in buttery goodness? 😋
Making this dish is a breeze; just mix, bake, and combine! Ideal for cozy nights when I want something delicious but easy to whip up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease. If you prefer turkey or chicken for a lighter dish, those options work well too. Just keep in mind they may have different cooking times and flavors.
Breadcrumbs: I like using plain breadcrumbs, but feel free to substitute with Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost. You can also use crushed crackers or rolled oats if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch, but if you don’t have any, dried parsley can be a good substitute (use about 1 tablespoon). Basil or cilantro can also change the flavor profile wonderfully!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce, but if you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half or whole milk can work. For a non-dairy option, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for flavor, but if unavailable, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast makes a nice substitute. Just remember that nutritional yeast is a great vegan option!
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To get the best flavor and texture from your meatballs, follow these simple steps:
- Mix ingredients gently. Use your hands but avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after shaping. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Cook in batches. Giving each meatball space allows them to brown nicely, which enhances their flavor.
- Don’t skip the onion powder! It adds a depth of flavor that elevates the overall taste of the meatballs.
By following these tips, your meatballs will come out delicious and moist every time!
Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes in total, including 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Then, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You can make about 12-15 meatballs.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little bit of oil to prevent sticking. Once the skillet is hot, add the meatballs in batches. Cook them until they’re browned on all sides, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Next, pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper!
4. Cook the Linguine:
While the sauce is simmering, grab a pot of boiling water and cook the linguine according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
5. Combine Linguine and Sauce:
Add the heavy cream and the remaining Parmesan cheese into the pot with the drained linguine. Stir everything gently until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve:
Now it’s time to serve! Take a generous portion of the creamy Parmesan linguine and place it on a plate. Top with the garlic butter meatballs, and finish it off by drizzling some extra sauce from the skillet on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle with more Parmesan if you like. Enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs served over creamy Parmesan linguine!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. Just be aware that leaner meats may result in slightly different textures, so ensure not to overcook them to keep the meatballs juicy.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your beef broth and any condiments you use are also gluten-free!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, separate the meatballs from the pasta. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of extra cream to the sauce if needed.
Can I Prepare the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They’ll keep for up to 3 months; just cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
