If you are craving a dish that perfectly combines juicy meatballs with a decadently creamy sauce, this Alfredo Meatballs Recipe is going to become your new favorite comfort dinner. Imagine tender Italian-style meatballs simmered in a rich Alfredo sauce that is both cheesy and velvety, making every bite irresistible. Whether served over a bed of pasta, rice, or even alongside some crusty garlic bread, this dish brings warmth and flavor to the table with each forkful. It’s a beautiful blend of hearty and indulgent that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a silver mixing bowl, there are six distinct layers: a deep red minced meat layer on the lower left, a pile of fine yellow breadcrumbs on the lower right, a bright yellow egg yolk on the upper right sitting on top of pale, finely chopped onions, and three different shades of green and brown dried herbs/spices arranged above and next to the breadcrumbs and meat. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface surrounded by small clear bowls of various spices, two cracked light brown eggshells in a white bowl, a whole white garlic bulb, and a striped cloth in shades of blue and white. The scene is shot from above with good lighting highlighting the textures and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Alfredo Meatballs Recipe relies on a handful of simple, quality ingredients that are staples in many kitchens. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the seasoned meatballs themselves to the luscious Alfredo sauce that wraps them in creamy goodness.

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey: Pick your preference for a juicy and protein-packed base for the meatballs.
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
  • 1 egg: Acts as a glue to hold the meatballs together perfectly.
  • 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan: Infuses the meatballs with a subtle salty richness.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the meat mixture.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that will make your meatballs sing.
  • Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
  • 2 Tbsp butter: For sautéing garlic and adding a silky base to the Alfredo sauce.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its aromatic punch.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: The star of the Alfredo sauce, creating that smooth, luscious texture.
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan: Adds sharpness and cheesiness to the sauce.
  • ¼ tsp black pepper: A gentle kick that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

How to Make Alfredo Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by combining ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything thoroughly but gently so the meat stays tender. Then, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. This step is crucial because uniform meatballs ensure even cooking and a perfect bite!

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

You have two great options here: bake them in the oven or pan-sear on the stove. Baking typically takes about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, which is great for a hands-off approach. Alternatively, pan-searing them in a skillet over medium heat will give you a beautiful crust on the outside, adding extra texture and flavor. Either way, don’t rush—make sure they’re cooked all the way through before moving on.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a clean skillet, melt the butter gently and add the minced garlic. Sauté for just one minute until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly. Then stir in the grated Parmesan and black pepper until the sauce is silky and smooth. This sauce is the magic touch for your meatballs.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Carefully add the cooked meatballs into the Alfredo sauce and toss until each meatball is lavishly coated. The sauce clings to the meatballs, creating that creamy, cheesy goodness we crave. Let them warm together for a minute or two to meld the flavors beautifully before serving.

How to Serve Alfredo Meatballs Recipe

A white bowl filled with a bed of light yellow spaghetti noodles at the bottom, topped with several light brown meatballs covered in a thick, creamy white sauce mixed with small green herb pieces. A fork held by a woman's hand is lifting some noodles and meatballs from the bowl. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can really elevate your Alfredo Meatballs Recipe by adding a splash of color and freshness. Try sprinkling chopped parsley or basil over the top for a vibrant contrast. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan is always a welcome addition to raise the cheesiness factor.

Side Dishes

Classic fettuccine pasta or steamed rice are perfect bases to soak up that rich Alfredo sauce, turning this into a hearty, filling meal. For some extra veggies, steamed peas or sautéed spinach not only add color but a wonderful fresh flavor that balances the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to mix things up, try serving these Alfredo meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a unique comfort food experience. You can also spoon them over roasted vegetables or even use them as a hearty sandwich filling with crusty garlic bread for a fun, twist on a meatball sub.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Alfredo Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep the meatballs and sauce together to retain that saucy goodness and prevent drying out.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, making it great for meal prep. Freeze the meatballs and Alfredo sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For reheating, gently warm the Alfredo meatballs on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Microwaving works well too; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot and creamy once again.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken will work fine and will give the meatballs a lighter texture, though turkey or beef tends to have a bit more richness.

Is it possible to make the sauce dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan Parmesan alternatives to make a dairy-free Alfredo sauce, though the flavor profile will be a bit different.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Using breadcrumbs and an egg in the meat mixture helps bind the meatballs. Mixing gently and not overworking the meat also keeps them tender and intact during cooking.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

You can prepare and shape the meatballs a day in advance and keep them in the fridge. Cooking and finishing with Alfredo sauce can be done fresh when you are ready to serve.

What pasta goes best with Alfredo Meatballs Recipe?

Fettuccine is classic with Alfredo sauce, but any pasta that holds sauce well, like penne or pappardelle, would pair wonderfully for this dish.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait to treat yourself to the comfort and elegance of this Alfredo Meatballs Recipe. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but satisfying enough to impress family and friends. Once you try it, this creamy, cheesy, meaty delight will quickly become one of your go-to meals whenever you’re craving something truly special and delicious. Enjoy every luscious bite!

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Alfredo Meatballs Recipe

Alfredo Meatballs Recipe


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4.2 from 33 reviews

  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Juicy Italian-style meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce — comforting, cheesy, and perfect over pasta or rice. This hearty dish combines flavorful meatballs with a luscious Alfredo sauce, making it a satisfying main course for family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Sauce

  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan
  • ¼ tsp black pepper


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch sized meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
  3. Cook the Meatballs: Either bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or pan-sear them over medium heat in a skillet until browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes.
  4. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper, mixing until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
  7. Toss Meatballs in Sauce: Add the cooked meatballs to the Alfredo sauce, gently tossing to coat them evenly. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Notes

  • For added color and nutrition, mix in spinach or peas when tossing meatballs in the sauce.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with fettuccine, spaghetti, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
  • Serve with garlic bread to soak up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
  • Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef if you prefer a lighter version.
  • Ensure not to overcook the garlic in the sauce to avoid bitterness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

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