These Creamy Meatballs are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meatball game! This simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe combines tender, juicy meatballs with a rich and creamy sauce that’s bursting with savory goodness. The addition of mustard, turmeric, and dill greens in the sauce creates a delightful harmony of flavors that perfectly complements the seasoned meat. Topped with melted cheese, these meatballs are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering. Whether served with mashed potatoes, pasta, or in a meatball sub, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- Minced meat: 1.5 lbs (680 g) (use beef, pork, chicken, or a mix)
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Hard cheese: 2 oz (60 g), finely grated
- Dried garlic: To taste
- Paprika: To taste
- Salt: To taste
- Ground black pepper: To taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 30% cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Dill greens: Chopped, to taste
Preparation Process
Step 1: Mixing the Meatballs
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 1.5 lbs (680 g) of minced meat. Finely chop 1 onion and add it to the bowl. Season the meat mixture with dried garlic, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper to taste.
- Mix the Meat: Using your hands or a spoon, mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Form the Meatballs: Shape the seasoned meat mixture into round meatballs of your desired size. For even cooking, try to keep them uniformly sized. Set the meatballs aside on a plate.
Step 2: Crafting the Creamy Sauce
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup (120 ml) of 30% cream, 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add Fresh Dill: Chop a generous handful of dill greens and stir them into the sauce. The dill adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the rich flavors of the sauce.
Step 3: Baking the Meatballs
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Assemble the Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the meatballs into the dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are evenly coated. The sauce will thicken as it bakes, infusing the meatballs with delicious flavor.
- Bake the Meatballs: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Adding the Finishing Touch
- Sprinkle with Cheese: Once the meatballs are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with 2 oz (60 g) of finely grated hard cheese. The heat from the meatballs will melt the cheese, adding an irresistible, gooey layer on top.
- Serve Hot: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This recipe truly shines because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The savory richness of the meatballs is complemented by the creamy decadence of the sauce, while the mustard and turmeric add a subtle tang and warmth. The fresh dill provides a burst of freshness that ties everything together, and the final sprinkling of cheese adds a luscious finish that’s sure to leave everyone wanting more.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Gently mix the meat ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
- Try Different Meats: Experiment with a mix of beef, pork, chicken, or even turkey for varied flavors.
- Adjust the Spice Level: For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
- With Mashed Potatoes: Serve these creamy meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- On a Roll: Pile the meatballs onto a crusty roll with some extra sauce for the ultimate meatball sub.
- With Pasta: Toss the meatballs with your favorite pasta for a delightful twist on classic spaghetti and meatballs.
- With Vegetables: Pair the meatballs with steamed green beans, asparagus, or a fresh garden salad for a lighter option.
Enjoy these Creamy Meatballs with their luxurious sauce, and bring a touch of comfort and joy to your dinner table!
