Print

Garlic Butter Meatballs with Parmesan Pasta

garlic butter meatballs with parmesan pasta - featured image
Print Recipe

A cozy and easy homemade dinner featuring juicy garlic butter meatballs served over creamy parmesan pasta. Ready in about 45 minutes, this dish balances rich, savory flavors with comforting textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or mix beef and pork for juicier meatballs)
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (about 25g)
  • 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs (about 30g)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water (60ml)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (about 50g), plus extra for serving
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overworking.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, about 16 total. Place on a plate or baking sheet.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  4. Heat 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 4 tbsp butter and sliced garlic to the skillet. Cook gently, stirring often, until garlic is fragrant and golden (2-3 minutes), being careful not to burn it.
  6. Return meatballs to skillet. Add chicken broth or reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and sauce thickens slightly.
  7. While meatballs simmer, toss drained pasta with 2 tbsp butter and 1/2 cup grated parmesan. Season with salt and pepper and toss until creamy and cheese melts.
  8. Plate the parmesan pasta, top with garlic butter meatballs, spoon extra sauce over, and garnish with extra parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Use fresh garlic and good-quality parmesan for best flavor. If sauce is too thick, add more broth or pasta water. Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning meatballs to ensure proper searing. Freshly grated parmesan melts better than pre-grated. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs and pasta accordingly. Meatballs can be baked at 400°F for 15-20 minutes as an alternative cooking method.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter meatballs, parmesan pasta, easy dinner, homemade meatballs, comfort food, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/garlic-butter-meatballs-with-parmesan-pasta-easy-homemade-recipe-for-dinner/