These flavorful meatballs are perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, served with a rich and creamy mustard sauce. The addition of fresh dill gives the sauce a refreshing herbal kick, making it a great comfort dish for any occasion.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1.5 lbs (680g) minced meat (beef, pork, chicken, or a mix)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 oz (60g) hard cheese, finely grated
- Dried garlic, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1/2 cup (120ml) 30% cream
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Chopped dill greens, to taste
Directions
- Mixing the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine minced meat, finely chopped onion, grated cheese, dried garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but avoid overworking the meat mixture.
- Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs.
- Crafting the Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream, mustard, turmeric, pepper, salt, and chopped dill until smooth.
- Baking the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serving: Once baked, pour the creamy mustard sauce over the meatballs and serve hot.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Enjoy with a fresh salad for a lighter option.
- Serve with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overwork the meat mixture when making meatballs; this will help keep them tender.
- For extra flavor, add herbs like parsley or thyme to the meatball mixture.
- Adjust the amount of mustard and turmeric to suit your taste preferences.
- You can pan-fry the meatballs first for a crispy exterior before baking them.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of water to thin it out.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein: The minced meat provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Healthy Fats: The cream adds a rich source of fats, providing energy and supporting cell function.
- Herbs: Dill is a great source of antioxidants and provides digestive benefits.
- Flavor Profile: Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while mustard adds a zingy, tangy kick to the sauce.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: It is suitable for low-carb diets, especially when paired with vegetables or salad.
- Keto-Friendly: With its high fat and protein content, it’s perfect for a keto diet.
- Paleo Option: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a paleo-friendly version.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The sauce can be stored separately and reheated gently before serving.
- For longer storage, freeze the meatballs (without sauce) for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These meatballs are incredibly easy to make and are packed with flavor. The creamy mustard sauce brings a perfect balance of richness and tang, while the fresh dill adds a burst of freshness. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile and pairs well with various sides.
Conclusion
This meatball recipe with creamy mustard sauce is perfect for anyone craving a savory, hearty meal. The combination of tender meatballs and rich, flavorful sauce will leave you wanting more. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a delicious weeknight dinner or a meal for guests. Enjoy these meatballs with your favorite sides for a well-rounded, satisfying dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe! It will make the dish lighter. - Can I make the meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can shape the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. - Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, you can use any hard cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor. - Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, freeze the meatballs after shaping them. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. - Can I make the sauce spicier?
Definitely! Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot mustard to kick up the heat. - Is the sauce dairy-free?
No, the sauce contains cream. To make it dairy-free, you can substitute with coconut cream. - How can I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, add a little more cream or reduce it over low heat to thicken. - Can I pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking?
Yes, you can pan-fry them in oil for a crispy exterior before adding the sauce. - Can I use fresh garlic instead of dried garlic?
Yes, fresh garlic will give a more intense flavor. Use about 2-3 cloves, minced. - What sides pair best with these meatballs?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad all pair beautifully with this dish