Are you craving those iconic IKEA meatballs but don't feel like a trip to the furniture store? Then you're in luck! This recipe will guide you through making delicious, homemade IKEA-style meatballs that are surprisingly easy and much more affordable. This is the perfect recipe for a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal, or simply a satisfying homemade cooking experience. Get ready to enjoy these delicious dishes from the comfort of your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Creamy Gravy:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
Get started with the meatballs:
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In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This browning step adds a lot of flavor.
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Once all the meatballs are browned, set them aside.
Now for the creamy gravy:
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In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. This is the base of your gravy.
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Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form.
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Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
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Stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
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Add the browned meatballs back to the skillet and coat them in the gravy. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your homemade IKEA meatballs with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or lingonberry jam (a classic IKEA pairing!). A simple side salad also complements this dish beautifully.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture. Overmixing develops gluten and can lead to tough meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in batches to ensure even browning and avoid steaming.
- If the gravy is too thick, add a little more broth. If it's too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes.
- For a richer gravy, use homemade beef broth.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the meatball mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Substitute chicken broth for beef broth for a lighter gravy.
- Incorporate chopped mushrooms or finely diced bell peppers into the meatball mixture for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. A general estimate for one meatball and a portion of the sauce is approximately 300-350 calories, with varying amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and serving sizes.
These easy recipes are a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy your delicious, homemade IKEA meatballs!