Introduction
Garlic butter meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, merging the rich flavors of garlic and butter with juicy, savory meatballs. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, these meatballs bring comfort food to a whole new level.
The combination of ground beef and pork creates a succulent base, while the garlic butter sauce adds a luscious finish that coats each meatball. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can elevate your mealtime with this delicious recipe.
Whether served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own as an appetizer, these garlic butter meatballs are sure to please. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and parsley. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced evenly apart.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the garlic butter sauce. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce, allowing them to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve the garlic butter meatballs warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
FAQs
What can I do if my meatballs are too dry?
Ensure not to overmix the meatball mixture and consider adding a little more broth or a splash of milk to the mixture.
How can I ensure my meatballs are evenly cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and pork?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted, but it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor.
What should I do if my garlic butter sauce is too thin?
Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it down, or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it.
What if I want to make these meatballs spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture or the garlic butter sauce.
How can I incorporate vegetables into this recipe?
Finely chop or grate vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers and mix them into the meatball mixture.
What can I do if my meatballs are burning on the bottom?
Make sure to space your meatballs properly on the baking sheet and consider using parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Garlic butter meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Their savory flavor profile paired with the richness of garlic and butter is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the dish to your taste. Enjoy these meatballs as a comforting meal, an appetizer, or a special treat for gatherings. Happy cooking!
Recipe Card
Savory Garlic Butter Meatballs for Any Occasion
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and parsley. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced evenly apart.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the garlic butter sauce. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce, allowing them to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve the garlic butter meatballs warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
