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Growing up, some of my happiest moments occurred right in my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of garlic and herbs simmering in a pan always meant something delicious was on the way. Her Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine was a family favorite, blending the rich flavors of Italy with a comforting twist.
This dish is a nod to those cherished times. The luscious, creamy sauce clings to each strand of linguine, while the garlic butter meatballs add a savory punch that makes every bite unforgettable. It’s a meal that turns any ordinary evening into a special occasion, effortlessly bringing the essence of Italy to your dining table.
What makes this Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine so special is not just the flavors but the memories it creates. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a quiet night in, this recipe has a way of bringing people together with its irresistible charm. Just like the kitchen adventures from my childhood, this dish promises a delightful cooking experience.
If you love dishes that are both simple to prepare and packed with flavor, then you’re in for a treat. The Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine combines the comfort of home-cooked meals with a touch of culinary finesse, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys cooking and eating.
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Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our easy garlic butter meatballs over creamy parmesan linguine recipe. Learn how to make this delicious dish today!
Ingredients
- For the meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- For the linguine:
- 12 oz (340 g) linguine
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
- 3/4 cup (75 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs: Combine the minced beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Shape the mixture into small balls, approximately 1 inch in size, making about 20-24 meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs: Warm the olive oil and vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Place the meatballs in the pan and cook them for 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are browned and fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.
- Cook the linguine: Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package directions until it is firm to the bite. Save 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: Using the same skillet from the meatballs, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until it’s aromatic.
- Add the heavy cream and Italian herbs, stirring continuously. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Incorporate the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Transfer the cooked linguine into the skillet with the sauce. Mix until the pasta is thoroughly coated. If the sauce is overly thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water at a time until you achieve the preferred consistency.
- Assemble and serve: Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the creamy linguine. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Try using lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier meatball option.
- Experiment with mozzarella or fontina cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick in the creamy sauce.
Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs: Fundamentals and Preparation
Fundamentals
At the core of this dish are the garlic butter meatballs, which are both flavorful and easy to make. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a savory base. The garlic and Italian seasoning infuse the meatballs with incredible depth, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.
Using a blend of vegetable and olive oil for frying gives the meatballs a beautiful, golden-brown crust while keeping them juicy inside. This balance of textures is crucial to the dish’s success.
Preparation/setup
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, and Italian herbs in a mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Shape the mixture into small, uniform meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This step ensures even cooking.
Heat the oils in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned and cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set them aside while you prepare the linguine and creamy sauce.
Mastering the Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Technique
The key to perfecting the creamy Parmesan linguine lies in the sauce. Melt butter in the skillet, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Incorporate the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, letting it simmer until slightly thickened.
Add the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously for a smooth consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. The sauce should be rich yet light enough to coat the linguine without overwhelming it.

Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
Tips/tricks
To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the linguine. Use this starchy water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed. This trick ensures that every strand of pasta is perfectly coated.
Adding a touch of fresh parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Scampi Garlic Parmesan Rice, which similarly combines creamy and savory elements.
Perfecting and Troubleshooting Your Dish
Perfecting results
For best results, ensure the meatballs are evenly sized to promote uniform cooking. The balance of breadcrumbs and Parmesan in the mixture helps maintain their shape and texture. When combined with the creamy linguine, the dish achieves a harmonious blend of flavors.
If you’re looking to explore more meatball variations, consider these Easy Italian Meatballs for a different take on a classic favorite.
Troubleshooting/variations
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. For a lighter version, try reducing the amount of heavy cream and substituting with milk, though this will alter the richness.
For those who enjoy a touch of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Alternatively, you can explore unique flavor profiles with this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Creamy Parmesan Pasta Shells.
Serving, Presentation, and Storage
Serving/presentation
To serve, place the creamy linguine on a large serving platter and arrange the meatballs on top. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish. This presentation not only looks inviting but also allows guests to appreciate the dish’s vibrant colors and aromas.
For more serving inspiration, consider the elegant presentation of this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine.
Pairings/storage
Pair the dish with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine
For more ideas on creating mouthwatering meals, explore dishes like the Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter, which pairs beautifully with this pasta for a delightful spread.
Conclusion
The Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs Served Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy to any table. The seamless blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish for any occasion.
With straightforward preparation and a delectable outcome, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It highlights the beauty of homemade meals by transforming simple ingredients into something memorable and delicious.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this dish promises to deliver satisfaction and warmth. Its versatility and ease make it a staple worth adding to your culinary repertoire.
