Are you craving comforting meatballs but need to avoid gluten and dairy? Look no further! This recipe delivers all the juicy, flavorful goodness of classic meatballs without compromising on your dietary needs. These gluten and dairy-free meatballs are surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. They're also incredibly versatile – serve them with your favorite pasta, in a hearty soup, or simply enjoy them on their own! This recipe is a winner for healthy meals, easy recipes, and homemade cooking enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (ensure certified gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg (or flax egg: 1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water)
- 1/4 cup dairy-free milk (almond, soy, or oat milk work well)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, gluten-free breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg (or flax egg), dairy-free milk, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
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Cook the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 15-20 minutes). For best results, avoid overcrowding the pan; cook the meatballs in batches if necessary. This is where you can really embrace homemade cooking and customize your approach!
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Serve and Enjoy! Serve your delicious gluten and dairy-free meatballs immediately with your favorite sauce, pasta, or vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Gentle mixing prevents tough meatballs.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add other herbs and spices like parsley, thyme, or red pepper flakes.
- Make it ahead: Meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture.
- Italian-Style Meatballs: Use Italian seasoning instead of oregano and basil.
- Mediterranean Meatballs: Add crumbled feta cheese (if dairy is allowed) and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
These nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe offers quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and healthy, fitting perfectly into many lifestyles. Enjoy your amazing gluten and dairy-free meatballs!