Garlic Herb Spaghetti with Baked Chicken Meatballs
Looking for a dinner that’s as simple as it is delicious?
This Garlic Herb Spaghetti with Baked Chicken Meatballs is your answer!
With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, this dish is packed with fresh, zesty flavors and a rich, creamy sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you’re feeding the family or treating yourself, this is comfort food at its best – quick, easy, and unbelievably tasty!
For Garlic Herb Spaghetti with Baked Chicken Meatballs
For the Baked Meatballs:
- Ground Chicken or Turkey – The main protein for the meatballs, offering a lean and juicy texture.
- Egg – Helps bind the meatball ingredients together.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds a light, crispy texture to the meatballs.
- Grated Parmesan – Adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the meatballs.
- Olive Oil – (Optional) Adds moisture to the meatballs, making them even juicier.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Adds savory depth to the meatballs.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor.
- Go-To Seasoning (Optional) – A personal touch for extra flavor if desired.
For the Garlic Herb Pasta:
- Spaghetti, Linguine, or Cappellini – Your choice of pasta, either regular or whole wheat.
- Land O Lakes® Butter – A rich butter base for the garlic herb sauce.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic for an aromatic, savory flavor.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens the dish with a citrusy punch.
- Fresh Spinach – Adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Fresh Parsley – For a fresh herb flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Grated Parmesan – A creamy, cheesy element that brings everything together.
- Water – To loosen up the sauce and make it a bit creamy.
- Lemon Juice – A final squeeze for a fresh tang, rounding out the dish.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste, balancing the flavor of the dish.
Garlic Herb Spaghetti with Baked Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
For the Baked Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
- 1 egg
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra moisture)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings (e.g., Go-To seasoning from What's Gaby Cooking)
For the Garlic Herb Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti, linguine, or cappellini (whole wheat is fine)
- 1 stick (½ cup) Land O Lakes® Butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 3-4 oz fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup water (add more or less depending on desired consistency)
- A squeeze of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, mix the ground chicken or turkey with egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. Roll the mixture into about 30 small meatballs and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet sprayed with oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Cook the pasta: Follow the package instructions for your choice of pasta. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Make the garlic herb sauce: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and lemon zest, cooking for a few minutes—be sure not to brown the garlic. Add the chopped spinach and parsley, cooking until just wilted.
- Combine the pasta and meatballs: Add the cooked pasta and meatballs into the pot with the garlic herb sauce. Toss everything together, then add grated Parmesan and a little water to achieve a creamy consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a final squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and enjoy forkfuls of this flavorful dish!
- Can I use pre-cooked or frozen meatballs?
Absolutely! If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-cooked or frozen meatballs. Just thaw them before adding to the pasta, or pop them in the sauce to heat through. Easy!
- How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?
Want to kick up the flavor? Add in some minced garlic, fresh herbs like basil or oregano, or a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat. It’s the little things that make a big difference!
- Can I swap the pasta for a gluten-free option?
For sure! Whether it’s rice pasta, quinoa pasta, or any gluten-free alternative, it’ll work beautifully with the garlic herb sauce. No worries!
- How can I add some spice to the dish?
Spicy food lover? Toss in some red pepper flakes when you’re sautéing the garlic or add a little hot sauce to the pasta right at the end. Adjust to your preferred spice level!
- Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yep, you can totally prep the meatballs in advance! Make them, bake them, and store them in the fridge for a couple of days, or freeze them for later. Easy, peasy!