Meatball Stroganoff Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, look no further than this delicious Meatball Stroganoff recipe. This dish combines succulent meatballs with a rich, creamy sauce, creating a meal that's sure to please. Follow along for a detailed guide on how to prepare this delightful dish, complete with tips and variations to suit your tastes. Let's dive in!

What is Meatball Stroganoff?

Meatball Stroganoff is a twist on the classic Beef Stroganoff, featuring tender meatballs instead of strips of beef. The dish is renowned for its creamy sauce made with sour cream, mushrooms, and onions, served typically over egg noodles. This version offers a rich and flavorful experience, enhanced by the savory meatballs that soak up the delectable sauce.

Ingredients List for Meatball Stroganoff

For the Meatballs:

• 2 slices white bread, crust removed
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 10.5 ounces condensed French onion soup or condensed beef broth*
• ¾ cup water
• ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ cup sour cream

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Bread Substitute: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of bread soaked in milk for a different texture.
• Meat Varieties: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version.
• Cream Variation: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier sauce.
• Additional Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for extra nutrients and color.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Make Meatballs:

1. Prepare the Bread Mixture: Tear the white bread into small pieces and place them in a medium bowl. Add the milk and mix well. Let it sit until the bread has fully absorbed the milk.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the ground beef, egg, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
3. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into approximately 24 meatballs, each about 1 ½ tablespoons in size.
4. Cook Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.

How to Make the Sauce:

1. Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are softened, about 4 minutes.
2. Create Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the condensed French onion soup (or beef broth), water, and Dijon mustard. Stir until well combined.
4. Simmer with Meatballs: Return the meatballs to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
5. Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing Meatball Mixture: This can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not Browning Meatballs Properly: Ensure the skillet is hot enough to sear the meatballs, which adds flavor.
• Skipping the Roux Step: The flour is crucial for thickening the sauce. Ensure it's cooked properly to avoid a raw flour taste.
• Curdling Sour Cream: Stir the sour cream in off the heat to prevent it from curdling in the hot sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Meatball Stroganoff:

• Over Egg Noodles: The classic choice, egg noodles, soak up the sauce beautifully.
• With Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting alternative, serve the meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes.
• On Rice: Another great base that complements the rich sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Meatball Stroganoff:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve in a Deep Dish: Use a deep serving dish to keep the sauce contained and enhance the visual appeal.
• Add a Side Salad: A crisp green salad on the side provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stroganoff.

Meatball Stroganoff Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then reheat gently before serving.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the meatballs and sauce (without noodles) in zip-top bags for up to 4 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use pre-made meatballs?

Yes, you can use fully cooked frozen meatballs. Just add them to the skillet along with the soup and cook until heated through.

What can I use instead of French onion soup?

You can use condensed beef broth. For added flavor, cook a finely diced small onion in butter before adding the mushrooms.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version of Meatball Stroganoff.

Conclusion

This Meatball Stroganoff recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the richness of a creamy sauce with the heartiness of homemade meatballs. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and serving ideas to make it your own. Happy cooking!

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