Try this Alfredo meatballs recipe with creamy homemade Alfredo sauce and juicy meatballs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion meal!

Alfredo Meatballs

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If you’re in the mood for rich, creamy comfort food, these Alfredo meatballs are just what you need. This dish combines juicy meatballs with a decadent homemade Alfredo sauce, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Pairing these Alfredo meatballs with a complementary dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes adds even more flavor to your meal. If you enjoy hearty pasta dishes, you might also love Cowboy Spaghetti, which offers a unique Western twist on traditional spaghetti.

Ingredients for Alfredo Meatballs

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup crushed garlic croutons

For the Alfredo Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk (cold)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 oz parmesan Romano cheese, shredded
  • Parsley, for garnish

Serving:

  • 1 box linguine noodles (or pasta of your choice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

  1. Crush the Croutons: Use a food processor or place the croutons in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, garlic paste, parmesan cheese, salt, Italian seasoning, and crushed croutons.
  3. Form Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop to form uniform meatballs (about 1/2 inch in diameter).
  4. Bake the Meatballs: Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20 minutes.

2. Cook the Linguine

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water.
  2. Cook the linguine noodles until al dente, following package instructions.
  3. Drain the noodles, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds.
  2. Create the Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the cold milk 1/4 cup at a time, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  4. Season and Thicken: Add cracked black pepper, basil, and parmesan Romano cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

For more ideas on creating rich, flavorful sauces, check out this Ultimate Guide to Beef Brisket Recipes.

4. Combine and Serve

  1. Add Meatballs to the Sauce: Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them in the Alfredo sauce.
  2. Plate the Dish: Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of linguine noodles.
  3. Garnish: Top with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese.

Tips for Perfect Alfredo Meatballs

  • Whisk Continuously: To avoid lumps in the Alfredo sauce, whisk constantly while adding the milk.
  • Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded parmesan and Romano cheese melt better and taste fresher than pre-shredded varieties.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the noodles to al dente for the perfect texture.

Looking for a quick and easy meal prep option? Try this Burger Bowl Recipe for a low-carb, high-protein alternative.

Variations of Alfredo Meatballs

Spicy Alfredo Meatballs

  • Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.

Chicken Alfredo Meatballs

  • Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or ground turkey for a lighter option.

Vegetarian Alfredo Meatballs

  • Use a mix of mushrooms, lentils, and breadcrumbs instead of meat.

Low-Carb Option

  • Serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve alongside crispy Air Fryer Garlic Bread for a complete meal.
  • Add Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans complements the creamy flavors.
  • Salad Option: Enjoy with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.

Storing and Reheating Alfredo Meatballs

Refrigeration:

  • Store meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

  • Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Freezing:

  • Freeze meatballs separately (avoid freezing the Alfredo sauce, as it may separate).

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Store-Bought Alfredo Sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce offers fresher flavor and better control over ingredients.

2. How Do I Prevent the Sauce from Separating?

Reheat the sauce gently and whisk continuously. Avoid high heat.

3. What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?

Use cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar texture.

4. Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs.

Conclusion

These Alfredo meatballs are a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy sauce and savory meatballs. Whether you’re making them for a special dinner or a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to delight. Pair them with Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes or explore other comfort food favorites like Cowboy Spaghetti for a satisfying meal experience. Enjoy every bite!

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