Creamy Garlic Parmesan Meatballs with Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish featuring tender meatballs smothered in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, served over your favorite pasta. This comforting meal combines savory flavors with a creamy texture, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A deliciously creamy and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta.
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
- A comforting and hearty meal that feels like restaurant-quality dining at home.
- Can be customized with different types of meat and pasta.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Meatballs:
- Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper
For Serving:
- Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined. Roll into evenly sized meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Combine: Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and spoon the creamy garlic Parmesan meatballs on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Extra Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor.
- Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Cheese Lovers: Stir in extra mozzarella or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Meatballs can be frozen separately for up to 3 months. Freeze the sauce separately for best results.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then reheat and cook the pasta just before serving.
What pasta works best with this dish?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne are great options, but any pasta you prefer will work.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. To keep it creamy, mix milk with a bit of cornstarch.
What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously while adding it to the sauce.
Can I add more garlic for extra flavor?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste preference.
How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg as binders, and avoid over-mixing the meat mixture.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and serve with gluten-free pasta.
What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables pair well with this meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Meatballs with Pasta is a satisfying and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender meatballs, rich Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this a comforting meal that will impress your family and guests. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a variation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.