Creamy Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes – A Hearty Family Dinner Classic

These Creamy Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a silky cream sauce and served over buttery mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or when you need something filling, warm, and soul-soothing. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (500 g) ground beef and pork mix

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup (200 ml) beef or vegetable broth

• ½ cup (150 ml) heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 1¾ lbs (800 g) starchy potatoes (e.g. Russet or Yukon Gold)

• 3 tablespoons butter (50 g)

• ½–⅔ cup (100–150 ml) warm milk

• Salt and a pinch of nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, mustard, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using).

2. Mix everything well until it forms a uniform mixture.

3. With damp hands, form small meatballs about the size of a walnut.

4. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, and pan-fry the meatballs until golden brown on all sides.

5. Remove meatballs from the pan and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.

2. Slowly whisk in the broth, making sure there are no lumps.

3. Add the cream and mustard, stir to combine, and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

4. Return the meatballs to the pan, reduce heat to low, and let them simmer gently in the sauce for 10 minutes, until fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.

3. Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Peel and chop the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender (about 20 minutes).

2. Drain the potatoes and let them steam dry for a minute or two.

3. Mash with butter and gradually add the warm milk until you reach a creamy consistency.

4. Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg.

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Serving Suggestions

• Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate.

• Top with the creamy meatballs and plenty of sauce.

• Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

• Serve with steamed green beans, peas, or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.

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Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, caramelize the onions before adding them to the meatball mixture.

• No pork? Use all ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.

• Cheesy twist: Add 1–2 tablespoons grated Parmesan to the sauce.

• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils and breadcrumbs as a meatball base.

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute flour with cornstarch for the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes. Cook the meatballs, cool them completely, and freeze in an airtight container. The sauce can be made fresh when reheating for best texture.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. Store cooked meatballs in sauce and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

3. What can I use instead of cream?

Use full-fat milk or half-and-half for a lighter sauce, or unsweetened plant-based cream (like oat or soy cream) for a dairy-free version.

4. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes. Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes, or until cooked through.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer, or add an extra teaspoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a little water.

6. What vegetables go well with this dish?

Green peas, steamed carrots, sautéed spinach, or roasted Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with this creamy comfort dish.

7. Can I serve this with something other than mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Try serving it with buttered noodles, rice, spätzle, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

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