Alfredo Meatballs: Juicy Italian Meatballs in Creamy Alfredo

Imagine tender, juicy meatballs bathed in a comforting and creamy Alfredo sauce. This Italian-inspired recipe transforms the classic meatballs-and-tomato-sauce duo into a richer, more indulgent culinary experience. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why Choose Alfredo Meatballs Over the Classic?

If youre a fan of traditional meatballs in tomato sauce, this Alfredo meatball recipe offers a refreshing twist. Think of it as Swedish meatballs taking an Italian holiday, embracing notes of garlic and a subtle hint of nutmeg. This recipes versatility is its biggest strength: you can prepare the meatballs in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

The Secret to Perfect meatballs: with alfredo sauce

Two key factors contribute to the incredible tenderness of these meatballs:

1. Meat Blend: Use a mix of 80% ground beef and pork for extra juiciness and flavor.

2. Warm Water: Adding warm water to the mixture might seem unusual, but it ensures incredibly moist meatballs. Donâ€™t worry if the mixture feels too wet at first â€“ this is exactly what you want for juicy results.

How to Make Alfredo Sauce for Meatballs

Unlike béchamel, which starts with a roux (butter and flour), Alfredo sauce gets its richness from the simple combination of butter and cream. The traditional Italian version uses just butter, Parmesan, and starchy pasta water, which is the key to its silky smooth texture.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Alfredo Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

500g (80%) ground beef

250g ground pork

1 cup breadcrumbs

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 eggs, beaten
½ cup warm water

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

4 tbsp unsalted butter

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preparing the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork.

2. Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix in the beaten eggs and warm water until the mixture is evenly combined.

4. Form into uniform meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.

5. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 2: Making the Alfredo Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the heavy cream and let it warm gently.

3. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until smooth.

4. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens.

Step 3: Bringing It All Together

1. Add the cooked meatballs to the Alfredo sauce, gently stirring to coat them evenly.

2. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of starchy pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency.

Best Pasta Pairings for Alfredo Meatballs

For the ultimate dining experience, serve Alfredo meatballs with pasta that holds the sauce well. Top choices include:

Fettuccine

Tagliatelle

Bucatini

Cavatappi

Pro Tips for the Perfect Alfredo Meatballs

1. Prep Ahead: Make the meatballs in bulk and freeze them for later use.

2. Fresh Parmesan Only: Pre-grated cheese often lacks the same creaminess as freshly grated Parmesan.

3. Finishing Touch: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

A Family-Friendly Recipe Everyone Will Love

This recipe, inspired by Lori Murphy, is a heartwarming addition to any family table. Whether youre cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these Alfredo meatballs are sure to please everyone. Share your creations and let us know how you’ve adapted the recipe to your taste!

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Discover the ultimate Alfredo Meatballs recipe: tender Italian meatballs simmered in creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for pasta lovers and easy family dinners!