Name: Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs ground beef; 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tsp dried parsley; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground pepper; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground all spice; 1 large egg; 2 Tbsp milk; 3 Tbsp salted butter; 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk; 2 tsp dijon mustard

Introduction to Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

When you think of comfort food, what's the first dish that comes to mind? If it's meatballs, you’re not alone. Homemade meatballs are a game-changer in the world of quick dinners. Unlike store-bought options, making them from scratch not only allows you to control the ingredients but also infuses your meal with a personal touch and flavor that's simply unmatched.

Why buy frozen meatballs when whipping up a batch can be a breeze? Plus, you can customize them to suit your dietary preferences or even elevate them with exciting flavors, like our special Dijon gravy!

Did you know that the average dinner time has shrunk to just 30 minutes for busy young professionals? That's precisely why this recipe for easy meatballs in Dijon gravy is a lifesaver. You can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple steps, you're on your way to creating a delectable weeknight meal. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s craft something unforgettable that fits a busy lifestyle! Be sure to check out Food Network for more inspiration on quick dinners that taste amazing!

Ingredients for Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

Essential Ingredients for Meatballs

Creating the perfect meatballs starts with high-quality ingredients. For our Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy, you’ll need:

1.5 lbs ground beef: This forms the hearty base of the meatball.
¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs add both texture and flavor.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Onions provide a touch of sweetness and depth.
1 clove garlic, minced: A must for that savory kick!
2 teaspoon dried parsley: This adds a hint of herbal brightness.
1 large egg: Acts as the binder to hold everything together.
2 tablespoon milk: Keeps the meatballs moist.

If you’re interested in how to choose the best ground beef, you can check out this guide.

Key Ingredients for Dijon Gravy

Now, let’s talk gravy! The unique Dijon gravy enhances the meatballs and gives them a distinctive flavor. The key components include:

3 tablespoon salted butter: For a rich, buttery base.
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
1 ½ cups beef broth: Choose a quality broth for depth of flavor.
1 cup milk: Creaminess is essential here.
2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: The star ingredient, adding that bold, tangy taste.

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll be whipping up a delicious dinner in no time! If you’re not familiar with Dijon mustard, check out this article for more tips and uses.

Step-by-step preparation of Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

Making Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy isn't just about cooking; it's about creating a comforting meal that both you and your loved ones will enjoy. Let’s break it down step-by-step, ensuring each phase adds to the deliciousness you’re about to experience!

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Before diving into any recipe, it’s essential to have everything ready to go. For this dish, you’ll need:

For the meatballs:
1.5 lbs ground beef
¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground all-spice
1 large egg
2 tablespoon milk
For the Dijon gravy:
3 tablespoon salted butter
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 cup milk
2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Having your ingredients like seasoned breadcrumbs and Dijon mustard ready will streamline the process and make your cooking experience enjoyable. Feel free to check out this guide for tips on ingredient preparation.

Create the meatball mixture

In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients. Here’s where the magic happens! You can mix by hand, which can be therapeutic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment—your call. Until fully combined, knead it gently—this ensures your meatballs will be tender and flavorful.

Shape the meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to form those meatballs. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, create uniform balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet, and for best results, pop them in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes to firm them up. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.

Brown the meatballs in the skillet

Heat some oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs. They should sizzle! Brown them on all sides until cooked through. This step adds a lovely flavor and texture—don't rush it! When they’re ready, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Dijon gravy

Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet (you’ll want all that flavorful goodness). Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until it reaches a medium brown color. Pour in the beef broth, allowing it to simmer and thicken. For the final touch, stir in your milk and Dijon mustard—this combination creates a rich, creamy sauce that will elevate your meatballs.

Combine meatballs with gravy

Finally, it’s time to reunite the meatballs with their delicious gravy. Place the browned meatballs back into the sauce, letting them simmer until warmed through. This will allow the flavors to meld perfectly, making your Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy a dish full of depth and savor.

Serve these savory meatballs with mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh bread, and enjoy a comforting, delightful meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!

Variations on Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

Adding Veggies to the Meatball Mix

Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? By adding finely chopped veggies to your easy meatballs in Dijon gravy, you can boost their flavor and health benefits. Consider incorporating:

Zucchini or carrots for natural sweetness
Spinach or kale for a nutrient kick
Bell peppers for a crunchy texture
Simply mix these into your meatball mixture and watch your family enjoy a hearty meal loaded with goodness!

Using Alternative Meats or Meat Alternatives

For a different twist on your easy meatballs in Dijon gravy, feel free to experiment with various proteins. Ground turkey or chicken can be lean alternatives, while options like lentils or chickpeas provide a delightful vegetarian spin. If you're looking to keep things extra healthy, check out this guide on quick protein swaps that can fit perfectly into a meatball mix. By adjusting the meat or meat alternatives, you open up a world of flavors without sacrificing that delicious mustard gravy!

Cooking tips and notes for Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

Perfecting the meatball texture

To achieve the perfect texture for your easy meatballs in Dijon gravy, consider experimenting with the proportion of breadcrumbs and egg. If your mixture feels too wet, adding a bit more breadcrumbs can help. Conversely, if it’s too dry, a splash of milk can bring back that moisture. Remember, gently mixing the ingredients ensures tender meatballs, while overworking the mixture could lead to a tougher final product.

Adjusting the gravy thickness

Are you looking for a richer gravy? Adjusting the thickness is a breeze! If your gravy seems too thin, simply let it simmer a bit longer to allow it to reduce. For a thicker sauce, whisk in a bit more flour during the cooking process. On the other hand, if it's too thick, you can always stir in a little extra beef broth or milk to reach that velvety consistency you love.

For more tips on creating flavorful sauces, check out BBC Good Food for excellent resources.

Serving suggestions for Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

Pairing with sides

When savoring easy meatballs in Dijon gravy, the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Consider these delicious pairings:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich texture complements the tangy gravy perfectly.
Steamed Green Beans: A vibrant, healthy side that adds color and crunch.
Couscous or Rice: These options absorb the flavorful sauce, making each bite delightful.

For a refreshing touch, a simple garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.

Creative serving ideas

Serving your easy meatballs in Dijon gravy can be fun and innovative! Try these creative ideas:

Meatball Subs: Stuff fresh baguettes with meatballs and top with gravy for a delicious sandwich.
Flatbreads: Spread the meatballs on warm flatbreads, add spinach, and drizzle with extra sauce for a quick wrap.
Skewers: For a fun twist, thread meatballs onto skewers, perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

There you have it—a range of options to make your easy meatballs in Dijon gravy a meal to remember! If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out Saveur's Side Dishes for additional ideas.

Time Breakdown for Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

Preparation Time
Getting ready for your Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy is a breeze! You’ll spend just about 7 minutes gathering your ingredients and mixing the meatball mixture together.

Cooking Time
Once you’ve prepped, the cooking process takes approximately 23 minutes. This part includes browning the meatballs and simmering them in the delicious Dijon gravy.

Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights! This quick time frame makes it an ideal choice when you need to whip something up fast without sacrificing flavor.

For more cooking tips and tricks, check out resources from The Kitchn and Serious Eats!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

When whipping up a comforting dish like easy meatballs in Dijon gravy, it’s essential to keep an eye on nutrition. Here’s a concise breakdown of what you can expect:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 330 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable choice for dinner.

Protein

With about 25 grams of protein per serving, these meatballs are a great source of energy and much-needed nutrients. Enjoy them as part of a balanced meal!

Sodium

Keep in mind that the sodium content can reach around 800 mg per serving, mainly from the beef broth and seasonings used in the gravy. For a lower-sodium version, opt for homemade broth or reduced-sodium alternatives.

By understanding the nutritional profile of this dish, you can savor your meal while staying mindful of your dietary needs! If you're interested in more healthy alternatives, consider checking out this guide on the benefits of lean meats for more insights.

FAQ about Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the easy meatballs in Dijon gravy in advance. Shape the meatballs and then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for about an hour, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months! When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw the meatballs overnight in the fridge, and then proceed with browning and making the gravy.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?

If Dijon mustard isn't your style, there are alternatives! You can try yellow mustard or whole grain mustard for a slightly different flavor profile. For a milder option, consider mixing in a bit of mayonnaise with canola oil. Just remember that these substitutes will alter the taste of your easy meatballs in Dijon gravy, so adjust to your preference!

How do I store leftover meatballs and gravy?

To keep your leftovers fresh, store the easy meatballs in Dijon gravy in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave them in short intervals until warmed through. If you have a lot of leftovers, consider freezing them as well—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave hassle-free meals!

Conclusion on Easy Meatballs in Dijon Gravy

Creating easy meatballs in Dijon gravy is a delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinners. This approachable recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich, tangy gravy, making it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this meal with a side of steamed veggies or mashed potatoes for a wholesome dinner experience. Happy cooking!