Introduction
Discover the secret to creating mouthwatering meatballs that will have your family begging for more! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that’s both comforting and incredibly delicious. With a perfect blend of herbs, spices, and a creamy sauce, these meatballs are about to become your go-to meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 300g minced meat
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Sweet paprika
- Meat seasoning
- Dried garlic
- Dried oregano
- 1 egg
- 60g breadcrumbs
- 3 onions, finely chopped
- Fresh herbs (mixed)
- 1 carrot, grated
- Olive oil
- Butter
- 1 fresh red pepper, chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 300g mushrooms, sliced
- 150g ham, diced
- 100g flour
- 400ml cream
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine minced meat
- Add salt, black pepper, sweet paprika
- Sprinkle meat seasoning, dried garlic, and oregano
- Crack in the egg
- Add breadcrumbs
- Mix thoroughly with your hands
- Shape the Meatballs
- Finely chop one onion
- Mix chopped onion into the meat mixture
- Form uniform-sized meatballs
- Set aside on a plate
- Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop remaining onions
- Grate the carrot
- Slice mushrooms
- Dice ham
- Mince garlic
- Chop red pepper and fresh herbs
- Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet
- Sauté chopped onions until translucent
- Add garlic and red pepper
- Brown the meatballs on all sides
- Remove meatballs and set aside
- Create the Sauce
- In the same pan, sauté mushrooms
- Add diced ham
- Sprinkle flour to create a roux
- Slowly pour in cream
- Stir continuously to prevent lumps
- Return meatballs to the pan
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes
- Prepare the Finishing Sauce
- Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, and mustard
- Season with salt and pepper
- Stir until smooth
Nutritional Information
Per Serving
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Meat Mixture: Mix ingredients gently to keep meatballs tender
- Browning: Ensure a hot pan for perfect meatball crust
- Moisture Control: Don’t overwork the meat mixture
- Flavor Boost: Let meatballs rest in sauce for enhanced taste
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs
- Vegetarian Alternative: Replace meat with plant-based ground meat
- Spice Level: Adjust seasonings to taste
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of regular cream
- Low-Carb: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I freeze these meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze for up to 3 months.
Q4: What sides pair well with these meatballs?
Try mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
Q5: How can I make the meatballs more tender?
Don’t overmix the meat and avoid overcooking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in sauce for maximum flavor
- Freezing: Freeze without sauce for best results
- Reheating: Warm gently to prevent drying out
- Prep Ahead: Mix meatball mixture night before
Enjoy your delicious, juicy meatballs!