Garlic Butter Meatballs Linguine: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Garlic Butter Meatballs Linguine is a dish that brings together the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with a delightful twist. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs infused with the rich essence of garlic and butter, served over a bed of perfectly cooked linguine. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of family gatherings and hearty meals shared around the dinner table.

What I love most about Garlic Butter Meatballs Linguine is its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The savory meatballs are complemented by the silky smoothness of the linguine, creating a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, it’s a convenient recipe that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Linguine:
• 12 ounces linguine pasta
• Salt for pasta water

Preparing the Meatballs

Let’s start by making the meatballs. This is where the magic begins!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. I love using a mix of meats for added flavor and texture.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to the bowl. This combination is going to make your meatballs incredibly flavorful!
3. Using your hands (make sure they’re clean!), mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
4. Once mixed, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size you choose.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze!

Cooking the Meatballs

Now that our meatballs are ready, it’s time to cook them!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help to brown the meatballs nicely.
2. Once the oven is preheated, bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden-brown color. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should no longer be pink in the center.
3. While the meatballs are baking, let’s get started on the garlic butter sauce!

Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce

This sauce is the star of the show, and it’s super easy to make!

1. In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. The aroma of melting butter is just heavenly!
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point. It adds a nice kick to the sauce!
4. Once the garlic is ready, season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and adjust as needed.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside while we cook the linguine.

Cooking the Linguine

Now, let’s get that pasta cooking!

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. The salt is essential for flavoring the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the linguine in a colander. Don’t rinse the pasta, as we want to keep that starchy goodness!

Assembling the Dish

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to bring everything together.

1. In the skillet with the garlic butter sauce, add the drained linguine. Toss the pasta in the sauce to coat it evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
2. Once the pasta is well coated, gently add the baked meatballs to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully to avoid breaking the meatballs.
3. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Garlic Butter Meatballs Linguine is ready, it’s time to serve! Here are a few tips:

1. Plate the linguine and meatballs in generous portions. I love to use a large serving bowl for family-style dining!
2. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese on top. Who doesn’t love more cheese?
3. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
4. Don’t forget a glass of your favorite wine to complement the dish!

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Meatballs Linguine! This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your household!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Butter Meatballs Linguine recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pasta game. The combination of tender, flavorful meatballs enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with perfectly cooked linguine, creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. You can also pair this dish with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up that luscious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the linguine for zoodles or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist, or even experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. I encourage you to give this Garlic Butter Meatballs Linguine a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turns out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media; I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking! Print

June 15, 2025 by Melissa