Alfredo Sauce with Meatballs

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, beaten egg, whole milk, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1–1.5 inches in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 5-7 minutes, turning them to brown on all sides.
While the meatballs cook, prepare the Alfredo sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to the melted butter. Stir for about a minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour, cooking it for another minute until it turns golden.
Gradually pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Fold in the parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create that creamy sauce, then sprinkle in the fresh parsley.
Serve the meatballs over pasta with the Alfredo sauce generously drizzled on top.

Best ways to enjoy it

This delightful Alfredo sauce with meatballs pairs perfectly with fettuccine, linguine, or even zoodles for a low-carb option. To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing with more freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. For a complete meal, you might serve it alongside garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Storage and reheating tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly can help you enjoy this dish later! Place the meatballs and Alfredo sauce in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them separately. The meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months, while Alfredo sauce fares best when consumed fresh, as it can separate upon thawing.

When reheating, gently warm the meatballs in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to the sauce to restore its creamy texture.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best result with this recipe:

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender and juicy.
For an additional flavor kick, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano to your meatball mixture.
If you want to lighten the Alfredo sauce, substituting half of the heavy cream with chicken broth can still give you a satisfying flavor without all the calories.

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the Alfredo for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. Experimenting with different cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese can give your sauce an entirely new personality. You could also swap out the proteins; turkey or pork make excellent alternatives to beef if you are looking for something different.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare?

This recipe takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, including prep time and cooking.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option, and even good for meal prep.

Is there a way to lighten the dish without losing flavor?

Yes! You can substitute part of the heavy cream with chicken broth, and use low-fat dairy options to reduce calories while keeping a good flavor profile.