Homemade Meatballs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

A Comforting and Flavorful Classic

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a plate of homemade meatballs smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for chilly days, this dish brings together juicy, well-seasoned meatballs and a velvety sauce that’s packed with flavor. Serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (500g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra tenderness)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking

For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:

• 8 oz (250g) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• ¾ cup (200ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (100ml) chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Butter, for cooking

Instructions

Making the Meatballs:

1. Mix the ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the meatballs – Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Adjust the size as needed.
3. Cook the meatballs – Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs, turning them occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Preparing the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:

1. Sauté the shallot – In the same skillet, melt a little butter and cook the chopped shallot over low heat until soft and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add the mushrooms – Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook over medium heat until they are golden brown and have released their liquid.
3. Make the sauce – Pour in the chicken broth and let it reduce by half. Then, stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, mixing well. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

Bringing It All Together:

1. Return the meatballs – Add the cooked meatballs back to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
2. Garnish & serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot. Pair with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Tricks

• Meat choice – A mix of beef and pork creates juicier meatballs, but you can also use chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
• Flavor boost – Try adding fresh thyme or oregano to the meatballs for extra depth.
• Extra creamy sauce – For an even richer sauce, add some grated cheese or an extra splash of heavy cream.
• Make ahead – These meatballs and sauce can be made in advance and reheated, making them perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Homemade meatballs with creamy mushroom sauce are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with comforting flavors. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. With a rich, velvety sauce coating every bite, this dish is a guaranteed hit!