Description
Indulgent, savory, and ultra-satisfying, these Garlic Butter Meatballs over Creamy Parmesan Linguine are the ultimate comfort food dish. Juicy homemade meatballs are pan-seared in fragrant garlic butter, then served atop tender linguine tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s an irresistible dinner that brings restaurant-style quality straight to your kitchen.
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Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Meatballs:
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1 lb ground beef or turkey
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1 egg
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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¼ cup breadcrumbs
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp chopped parsley
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking)
For the Creamy Parmesan Linguine:
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12 oz linguine pasta
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth)
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¼ cup reserved pasta water (as needed for consistency)
For Garnish:
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Extra grated Parmesan
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Cracked black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain, reserving ¼ cup pasta water. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
4. In a bowl, combine ground meat, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix just until combined and form into 1½-inch meatballs.
6. In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
7. Add meatballs and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
8. In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic.
9. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
10. Pour in heavy cream and stir, letting it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
11. Add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
12. Stir until the cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
13. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
14. Add cooked linguine to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
15. Place garlic butter meatballs on top or gently fold them into the pasta.
16. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
Use Fresh Garlic – It’s key for rich, aromatic flavor.
Don’t Overmix – Keep the meatball mixture tender.
Simmer Gently – Don’t boil the cream sauce or it may curdle.
Adjust Sauce Consistency – Add reserved pasta water to thin or extra cheese to thicken.
Let Meatballs Rest – Resting helps retain juices and finish cooking through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired Comfort Food