Name: 7 Irresistible Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs to Savor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, plus more for garnish); 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper (to taste); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs are a delightful culinary creation that I find irresistible. These meatballs are juicy, packed with flavor, and enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. You can serve them as an appetizer, over pasta, or even as a comforting snack. The combination of tender meat and melty cheese is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs

There are countless reasons to adore this cheesy garlic meatballs recipe. For starters, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to for busy weeknights. Plus, the rich garlic butter sauce adds a depth of flavor that elevates these garlic butter meatballs to a whole new level. You can customize the recipe to suit your taste, whether you prefer cheesy garlic butter turkey meatballs for a leaner option or traditional beef. They also make fantastic party snacks that will impress your guests. Lastly, they pair wonderfully with pasta, providing a delicious, comforting meal.

Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, plus more for garnish)
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
Step 5: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Step 6: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the melted butter. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 7: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the saucepan with the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs, cover the saucepan, and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
Step 9: Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving.
Step 10: Serve warm as an appetizer, over pasta, or with crusty bread for dipping!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Feel free to adjust seasoning to your taste.
Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
For a creamier texture, try adding cream cheese to the meat mixture.
Ensure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs

These cheesy garlic butter meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a hearty appetizer, perfect for parties, or over a bed of spaghetti for a cozy dinner. They also make a fantastic filling for subs or sliders, topped with extra cheese for a delightful twist. For those looking to impress, serve them alongside crusty bread for a dipping experience!

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs

To store your homemade cheesy garlic butter meatballs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or gently heat in a saucepan over low heat for a quick meal prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs?

The secret lies in not overmixing the meat mixture and allowing the garlic to infuse into the butter sauce without burning. Using fresh ingredients also enhances flavor.

Can I make Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving. This makes them an ideal option for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that your oven is preheated, and don’t rush the baking process. Also, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow them to absorb the sauce better.

Variations of Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of meat such as turkey or chicken to create cheesy garlic butter turkey meatballs. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano for a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, incorporate jalapeños or switch up the cheese for a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.

For more delicious recipes, check out Guinness Gravy Meatballs or Korean BBQ Meatballs. If you’re interested in meal prep, consider Slow Cooker Korean Beef for a quick and easy dinner option.