Creamy Garlic Pasta Nests with Pesto Chicken Meatballs
There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that combines creamy pasta with savory meatballs. When you add the fragrant notes of garlic and the vibrant zing of pesto, you have a meal that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a little joy to your kitchen. These Creamy Garlic Pasta Nests with Pesto Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, featuring tender chicken meatballs nestled in delicate angel hair nests. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Why It Deserves a Spot
This recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table for several reasons. First, it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. The creamy garlic sauce envelops the angel hair nests in a rich embrace, while the pesto chicken meatballs add a burst of flavor that elevates the entire meal. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily adapt it to your taste preferences, making it a recipe to return to time and again.
Ingredient List
- 11 Goldn Plump Chicken Meatballs, thawed
- 1 16-oz package angel hair nests
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup pesto
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Shredded Parmesan, for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Small fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for sauce and meatballs
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients
- Serving plates or bowls
Creamy Garlic Pasta Nests with Pesto Chicken Meatballs: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Nests
Begin by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt. Carefully add the angel hair nests to the boiling water. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes, until al dente. When done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. This is where the magic begins—garlic transforms into a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Afterward, stir in the kosher salt and grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add the Pesto
Now, it’s time to add the star ingredient—pesto! Stir in the pesto and mix until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with freshly ground black pepper.
Step 5: Heat the Meatballs
In a separate skillet or the same skillet (if you have room), add the thawed Goldn Plump Chicken Meatballs. Cook them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and slightly browned.
Step 6: Combine Nests and Sauce
Add the drained angel hair nests directly into the creamy garlic sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
To serve, place a nest of creamy pasta on each plate and top with 2-3 pesto chicken meatballs. Drizzle with any extra sauce from the skillet and garnish with shredded Parmesan, minced fresh parsley, and small basil leaves for a fresh touch.
Make It Year-Round
- Seasonal Vegetables: Add seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the pasta for added nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken meatballs with turkey or even plant-based meatballs for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for an extra kick.
- Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for a light cream or a dairy-free alternative to reduce calories.
Method to the Madness
Creating these Creamy Garlic Pasta Nests with Pesto Chicken Meatballs is not just about following a recipe; it’s about enjoying the process. The beauty of this dish lies in its layers of flavor. Start with fresh garlic sautéed in butter, which creates a fragrant base. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese meld together, creating a rich sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. The addition of pesto brings brightness and depth, while the chicken meatballs offer heartiness.
Cooking is an art, and this dish allows you to express your creativity. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs, making it unique to your taste. Remember, cooking should be fun and fulfilling!
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meatballs and sauce separately; they will keep well for about 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the pasta nests gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if necessary. The key is to reheat slowly to maintain the creamy texture.
Common Questions
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair nests provide a lovely presentation, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken meatballs for plant-based meatballs or roasted vegetables and use a vegetarian Parmesan cheese.
What if I don’t have pesto?
If you’re out of pesto, you can create a simple herb sauce using fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts blended together. Alternatively, store-bought pesto is widely available and works great in this recipe.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and meatballs ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge, and cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Bring It Home
Imagine sitting down to a plate of Creamy Garlic Pasta Nests with Pesto Chicken Meatballs, the aroma wafting through the air, and the vibrant colors tantalizing your eyes. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort. The creamy, garlicky goodness envelops each nest of pasta, while the pesto chicken meatballs provide a delightful contrast. It’s a dish that invites conversation, laughter, and the joy of sharing a home-cooked meal with loved ones.
Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a cozy date night, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create something delicious together!
Creamy Garlic Pasta Nests with Pesto Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt. Carefully add the angel hair nests to the boiling water. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes, until al dente. When done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Afterward, stir in the kosher salt and grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the creamy sauce.
- Now, it’s time to add the star ingredient—pesto! Stir in the pesto and mix until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with freshly ground black pepper.
- In a separate skillet or the same skillet (if you have room), add the thawed Goldn Plump Chicken Meatballs. Cook them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and slightly browned.
- Add the drained angel hair nests directly into the creamy garlic sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- To serve, place a nest of creamy pasta on each plate and top with 2-3 pesto chicken meatballs. Drizzle with any extra sauce from the skillet and garnish with shredded Parmesan, minced fresh parsley, and small basil leaves for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
- Substitute chicken meatballs with turkey or plant-based options for a different flavor profile.
- Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
- Swap heavy cream for a light cream or dairy-free alternative to reduce calories.
