Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs with Creamy Linguine

This Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine recipe is a true family favorite, delivering tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine and creamy Parmesan—a perfect meal for busy evenings that feels utterly gourmet.

If you’re looking for a meal that hits all the right notes, you’ve landed in the perfect spot. This Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a real gem in my recipe collection because it’s surprisingly simple to pull together, yet tastes like you fussed over it for hours.

It’s the kind of comforting, hearty dish that just warms you from the inside out, making it absolutely perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you need something quick and delicious after a long day. You’ll be amazed at how those savory meatballs and that silky sauce come together! You know, sometimes you just need a delicious, satisfying meal without all the fuss, and this one really delivers, just like my One-Pot Chicken Dinner.

Key Takeaways

• Effortless Elegance: This dish comes together quicker than you’d think, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you still crave something special.
• Flavor Explosion: The garlic butter sauce is pure magic, coating every single strand of linguine and making those tender meatballs sing.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Seriously, even the pickiest eaters can’t resist this one! It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Pantry Friendly: Most ingredients are likely already hanging out in your kitchen, making last-minute dinner plans a breeze.
• One-Pot Wonder (Almost!): You’ll love how few dishes you’ll dirty up with this amazing pasta recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Let me tell you, there’s just something about sinking your fork into a perfectly cooked meatball, drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce, and then twirling it with creamy linguine. It’s truly an experience! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

• That Luscious Sauce: Oh my goodness, the creamy Parmesan sauce just clings to every bit of pasta and meatball. It’s so rich and satisfying, you’ll want to lick your plate clean!
• Tender, Juicy Meatballs: We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth tender meatballs here, packed with flavor and just waiting to soak up all that incredible garlic butter.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is pure comfort. It’s warm, hearty, and just feels like a big, cozy hug after a long day. Perfect for when you need a little pick-me-up!
• Surprisingly Simple: Despite how fancy it tastes, this Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine is actually super straightforward to make. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef, trust me.
• Protein Powerhouse: With all that lean ground meat, this meal is a fantastic source of protein, helping to keep you full and energized. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients! Just like my Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, it’s a great way to get those macros in.
• Leftovers are a Dream: If you happen to have any left (which is a big “if”!), it tastes even better the next day. Sometimes I even make a double batch just for that reason.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your family’s tastes, maybe adding a few extra veggies or swapping out the meat. Check out my other pasta dishes for more inspiration!

Food or Cultural Background

You know, some recipes just stick with you. For me, this particular combo of garlic butter, creamy pasta, and tender meatballs brings back such warm memories. I still remember the first time I tasted something similar at a small Italian-American restaurant near my grandmother’s house growing up. It wasn’t exactly this dish, but that rich, garlicky aroma and the comfort of the creamy pasta just imprinted on my mind.

As a home recipe developer, I’ve spent years tinkering in my kitchen, trying to capture that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Meatballs are such a classic comfort food, found in so many cultures, from Italian-American Sunday gravy to Swedish köttbullar. This version, though, really leans into that beautiful marriage of savory meat and a simple, yet incredibly flavorful, garlic butter sauce that’s then made creamy with Parmesan.

It feels like a dish that could’ve been passed down through generations, simple but utterly satisfying. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary – a real staple in our family, much like my Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs which also pack a garlicky punch!

Ingredients for Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness. I’ve also included some notes and easy swaps!

Equipment Needed

Good news! You won’t need a ton of fancy gadgets for this one.

• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet or Dutch oven (one that can hold the pasta later!)
• Whisk
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Large pot for cooking linguine
• Grater for Parmesan (if using a block)
• Cutting board and sharp knife for garlic and parsley

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine Step-by-Step

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps and you’ll have a fantastic meal on your table in no time.

1. Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix; just bring it all together.
2. Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get about 20-24 meatballs.
3. Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer (you might need to do this in batches) and brown them on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be cooked through yet. Remove the browned meatballs and set aside.
4. Sauté the aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. To the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn!
5. Build the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s pure flavor! Stir in the heavy cream and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Meanwhile, cook your linguine according to package directions in a separate pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Check out my easy guide to cooking pasta perfectly for more tips! If you love creamy pasta, you might also like my Creamy Chicken Garlic Pasta Recipe.
6. Simmer the meatballs: Return the browned meatballs to the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.
7. Combine everything: Drain the cooked linguine and add it directly to the skillet with the meatballs and sauce. Add the remaining Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the cheese has melted into the sauce.
8. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Results

I’ve made this dish countless times, and here are a few little tricks I’ve picked up along the way that make all the difference:

• Don’t Overmix Your Meatballs: Seriously, this is key! Overmixing will make your meatballs tough. Mix just until combined for tender, juicy results.
• Sear for Flavor: Browning the meatballs first creates a fantastic crust and locks in their juices, adding so much depth to the final dish. Plus, those browned bits in the pan are gold for your sauce!
• Freshly Grated Parmesan is Best: I know, the pre-shredded stuff is convenient, but freshly grated Parmesan melts so much better and has a far superior flavor. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for that creamy sauce!
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or pasta water. Too thin? Simmer it a bit longer, uncovered, to reduce.
• Pasta Water is Liquid Gold: Always reserve about a cup of your pasta cooking water before draining. It’s starchy and can help loosen the sauce and make it extra silky if needed. It’s a great trick I use for all my pasta recipes. Just like I do in my Viral Tomato Feta Pasta recipe.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before the final serve! You might need a little more salt, pepper, or even a tiny squeeze of lemon juice to brighten everything up.

What to Serve With Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine

This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but here are a few perfect pairings to round out your meal:

• Crusty Bread: Essential for soaking up every last drop of that amazing garlic butter sauce!
• Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta. You might love my Best Fresh Cucumber Pasta Salad (Quick & Creamy) if you’re looking for another great salad idea!
• Steamed Green Beans: A quick side of perfectly steamed green beans or asparagus adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
• Roasted Broccoli: Roasting broccoli brings out its nutty flavor and gives you another delicious vegetable to enjoy.
• Garlic Bread: You can never have too much garlic, right? My simple garlic bread recipe is always a hit!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (it doesn’t happen often in my house!), here’s how to keep them tasting great:

Store any leftover Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Facts Table

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods. For more info check the USDA

FAQs About Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it, my friend! This Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs & Creamy Parmesan Linguine truly is a standout. It’s the kind of comforting meal that brings smiles to faces and warmth to the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own.

Don’t forget to Pin this recipe for later, and when you make it, please come back and leave a review – I’d absolutely love to hear how it turns out for you! If you’re looking for more quick and delicious dinner ideas, make sure to check out my other Hot Lunch Ideas – they’re just as easy and satisfying! Happy cooking!

Keep your cooking inspired—follow us now on Pinterest and Facebook for bite‑sized inspiration!

Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs with Creamy Linguine

• Author: Karen Colman
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

This Easy Garlic Butter Meatballs with Creamy Linguine is a comforting weeknight dinner, featuring tender meatballs in a rich garlic butter sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked linguine and Parmesan. It’s a family favorite that comes together surprisingly fast!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan

1 large egg

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce & Pasta:

1 tbsp olive oil

4 tbsp unsalted butter

6 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan

12 oz linguine

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

---

Instructions

• Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan, egg, 1/4 cup parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix.

• Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 20-24 meatballs).

• Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in batches and brown on all sides for 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

• Sauté the aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

• Build the sauce: Pour in chicken broth and simmer, scraping up browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and half of the remaining Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, cook linguine according to package directions until al dente.

• Simmer the meatballs: Return the browned meatballs to the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.

• Combine everything: Drain cooked linguine and add it directly to the skillet with the meatballs and sauce. Add the remaining Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well coated.

• Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot.

---

Notes

Don’t Overmix Your Meatballs: This is key for tender, juicy results.

Sear for Flavor: Browning meatballs first adds a fantastic crust and depth of flavor to the dish.

Freshly Grated Parmesan is Best: It melts better and has superior flavor compared to pre-shredded.

Adjust Sauce Thickness: If too thick, add a splash more broth or pasta water. If too thin, simmer longer uncovered.

Pasta Water is Liquid Gold: Reserve some starchy pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed.

Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or milk to loosen. Can also microwave.

Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatballs in the sauce separately. Pasta is best cooked fresh when serving thawed sauce and meatballs.

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 700 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 135 mg

Keywords: Garlic Butter Meatballs, Creamy Linguine, Meatball Pasta, Easy Dinner, Homemade Meatballs, Weeknight Recipe, Parmesan Pasta, Comfort Food, Quick Pasta