Garlic Butter Meatballs: 5 Reasons You'll Love This Recipe

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Garlic Butter Meatballs are a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dining table. These juicy, savory meatballs are bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, making them an irresistible option for any meal. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a hearty family dinner, this easy garlic butter meatball recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Meatballs

There are countless reasons to adore these garlic-infused meatballs. First, they are incredibly juicy due to the careful combination of ground beef or chicken and flavorful ingredients. Second, they offer a robust flavor profile thanks to the garlic and butter, which meld together beautifully. Third, this recipe is not only quick but also versatile; you can serve these buttered garlic meatballs with a variety of sides, from pasta to rice or even veggies. Fourth, they are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch for busy weeknights. Fifth, the addition of herbs provides a fresh touch that elevates the dish. Lastly, this recipe is adaptable for various diets, including low-carb and keto-friendly options. Enjoying these savory garlic butter meatballs for dinner is a no-brainer!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken
1 large egg
⅓ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced
¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Butter Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Roll into 1½-inch balls (about 16–18 meatballs).
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add lemon juice if desired.
Step 5: Return meatballs to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until fully cooked and glazed.
Step 6: Garnish with parsley and serve warm over rice, pasta, or vegetables.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Meatballs

These juicy garlic butter meatballs can be served in various delicious ways. Consider pairing them with a bed of pasta for an Italian twist, or serve them over rice for a comforting meal. They also work wonderfully with sautéed vegetables for a lighter option. For an indulgent treat, try them with a side of garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Meatballs

To store leftover homemade garlic butter meatballs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This is a great meal prep option that can save you time on busy nights!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Meatballs?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients; using fresh garlic and proper seasoning creates flavor-packed garlic butter meatballs in sauce. Ensure you don’t overcook them to maintain juiciness.

Can I make Garlic Butter Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This makes them a perfect option for a quick garlic butter meatball dish during busy weeks.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Meatballs?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you don’t overmix the meat mixture, which can lead to dense meatballs. Also, cooking in batches prevents steaming, allowing for a nice golden crust on your savory garlic butter meatballs.

Variations of Garlic Butter Meatballs You Can Try

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding cheese to your meatball mixture for a gooey center. You can also experiment with different herbs, like thyme or basil, to create garlic butter meatballs with herbs. For a low-carb option, use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, making them keto-friendly. Lastly, try serving them in a spicy tomato sauce for a unique twist!