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Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne


  • Author: Nora Sinclair
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Indulge in a plate of rich, garlicky meatballs served over creamy Parmesan-coated penne. This comforting dish combines juicy, golden-browned meatballs with a luxurious garlic butter sauce that enhances every bite. Perfect for a cozy dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or when you need an easy yet impressive dish to serve family and friends. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, this recipe is bound to become a favorite!


Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

½ cup breadcrumbs

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

3 tbsp unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

¼ cup chicken or beef broth

¼ cup heavy cream

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Parmesan Penne:

12 oz penne pasta

2 tbsp butter

½ cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
  2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes (if using), then pour in broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Stir until smooth. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Cook the Penne: Boil salted water and cook penne according to package instructions. Drain and toss with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Plate the creamy penne and top with garlic butter meatballs. Spoon extra sauce over, garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner