Meatball Stroganoff Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious, hearty, and comforting meal, Meatball Stroganoff is the perfect choice. Combining tender meatballs with a rich, creamy sauce served over noodles, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Follow this recipe to create a mouthwatering Meatball Stroganoff that’s easy to prepare and utterly satisfying.

What is Meatball Stroganoff?

Meatball Stroganoff is a delightful twist on the classic Beef Stroganoff. It features tender meatballs cooked in a savory mushroom and sour cream sauce, served over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. This dish combines the comfort of meatballs with the creamy, tangy flavors of Stroganoff.

Ingredients List for Meatball Stroganoff

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Stroganoff Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• 12 oz egg noodles or mashed potatoes

Substitutions and Variations

• Meat Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute for the meatballs.
• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cream: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Noodles: Use whole wheat noodles, gluten-free pasta, or serve over rice or mashed potatoes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Begin by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Slice the mushrooms.
2. Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
6. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Combine Everything: Return the meatballs to the skillet and stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cook the Noodles: While the meatballs and sauce are simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

How to Cook Meatball Stroganoff: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Meatball Stroganoff involves a few key steps to ensure the meatballs are tender and the sauce is rich and creamy:

1. Preparation: Having all ingredients prepped and ready before starting ensures a smooth cooking process.
2. Forming Meatballs: Ensure the meatball mixture is well-combined to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
3. Browning Meatballs: Properly browning the meatballs adds depth of flavor and ensures they hold together in the sauce.
4. Building the Sauce: Cooking the onions, garlic, and mushrooms until tender enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce.
5. Thickening the Sauce: Adding flour and gradually incorporating the beef broth creates a smooth, thick sauce that coats the meatballs perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Cook the meatballs in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
• Lumpy Sauce: Add the beef broth gradually and stir constantly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
• Curdling Cream: When adding sour cream, reduce the heat to low to prevent curdling.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Cook the noodles just until al dente to avoid mushiness when combined with the sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate your Meatball Stroganoff from simple to spectacular. Here are some tips:

• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
• Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot to appreciate its creamy texture and savory flavor.
• Accompaniments: Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Meatball Stroganoff

Serve the Meatball Stroganoff directly from the skillet to keep it warm. Spoon a generous portion of meatballs and sauce over a bed of egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Presentation Ideas for Meatball Stroganoff

• Classic Style: Serve in a deep, wide bowl with a side of crusty bread.
• Family Style: Place the skillet on the dining table with a serving spoon and let everyone help themselves.
• Elegant Touch: For a more refined presentation, serve in individual ramekins with a garnish of finely chopped parsley and a drizzle of sour cream.

Meatball Stroganoff Recipe Tips

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Heat Control: Maintain medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Taste the sauce before adding the meatballs and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Resting Time: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before combining.

Q: Can I freeze Meatball Stroganoff?
A: Absolutely! Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Q: What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
A: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use fettuccine, pappardelle, or even rice.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce. Ensure all other ingredients, such as beef broth, are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Meatball Stroganoff is a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Follow the detailed steps and tips in this article to create a flawless Meatball Stroganoff that will impress your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!

Print