The Story Behind This Family Favorite
When time is short and hunger is high, this 15-minute skillet becomes a true lifesaver. A harmonious blend of seasoned meat, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary family meal.
Ingredients (US & Metric Measurements)
For the Meat Mixture
- Ground Meat: 1.3 lbs (600 g)
- Egg: 1 large
- Salt: To taste
- Sweet Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Italian Herb Blend: 1 tablespoon
- Breadcrumbs: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
Vegetable Components
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onions: 2 medium
- Carrot: 1 medium
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Potatoes: 5 medium
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Mushrooms: 5 medium
- Cheese: 1.7 oz (50 g), grated
- Tomato: 1 medium
Creamy Sauce
- Sour Cream: 3 tablespoons
- Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Meat Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat
- Add egg, salt, paprika, black pepper
- Mix in Italian herbs and breadcrumbs
- Form into small, uniform meatballs
- Vegetable Prep
- Dice onions
- Grate carrot
- Mince garlic
- Slice mushrooms
- Cube potatoes
- Cooking Process
- Heat butter in a large skillet
- Brown meatballs on all sides (5-6 minutes)
- Remove and set aside
- Vegetable Sauté
- In same skillet, add olive oil
- Sauté onions until translucent
- Add carrots and garlic
- Cook for 2-3 minutes
- Potato and Mushroom Layer
- Add cubed potatoes
- Cook for 5-6 minutes
- Add sliced mushrooms
- Return meatballs to skillet
- Final Touches
- Slice tomato, add to skillet
- Sprinkle grated cheese
- Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes
- Sauce Preparation
- Mix sour cream, dill, salt, pepper
- Add minced garlic
- Stir until well combined
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Preparation Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4-5
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use high-heat for quick browning
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet
- Keep meatballs uniform for even cooking
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor
- Let dish rest 2-3 minutes before serving
Variations and Substitutions
- Use ground turkey for leaner option
- Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt
- Add bell peppers for extra vegetables
- Use different cheese varieties
- Make vegetarian with plant-based meat
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead of time? Prepare meatballs in advance, refrigerate.
- Is it freezer-friendly? Yes, freeze without sauce for up to 1 month.
- Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- What if I don’t have Italian herbs? Use oregano, basil, thyme mix.
- Kid-friendly? Absolutely! Customizable and delicious.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers 3-4 days
- Reheat gently in skillet
- Add splash of water to prevent drying
- Sauce best added fresh
- Separate meat and vegetables for storing
A meal that proves delicious doesn’t mean complicated. Enjoy your quick, hearty family skillet!
Bon appétit!