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Comfort food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Meatballs in creamy Dijon gravy are a classic example of the rich, comforting dishes that make you feel at home with every bite. This savory recipe combines the flavors of tender meatballs, a smooth and tangy Dijon mustard gravy, and the satisfaction of a hearty meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or planning to impress your guests, this dish is the perfect choice.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about making meatballs in creamy Dijon gravy, from the ingredients to tips and tricks for the perfect meatballs. We’ll also explore how to serve this dish, variations you can try, and answer some frequently asked questions.

Table of Contents

Why Meatballs in Creamy Dijon Gravy?

You may be wondering, why choose this recipe over others? Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

Flavorsome: The tangy Dijon gravy is a perfect balance to the savory meatballs, giving you a rich yet not overpowering flavor.
Versatile: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even over steamed vegetables. It’s a dish that can pair with anything.
Hearty & Filling: This recipe offers the right amount of protein and creaminess to keep you satisfied.
Easy to Prepare: Despite its rich flavor, it’s a simple recipe to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a Sunday family dinner.

Ingredients for Meatballs in Creamy Dijon Gravy

Creating these succulent meatballs in creamy Dijon gravy is incredibly simple when you gather the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for both the meatballs and the gravy:

For the Meatballs:

Ground beef or a combination of beef and pork: The best meatballs use a mix of beef and pork for flavor and texture. Use lean beef for less fat or fatty pork for a juicier result.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meat together and give the meatballs a soft, tender texture.
Egg: The egg is another binder that holds the meatball mixture together.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a delightful depth of flavor.
Onion: Chopped onion gives a sweet and savory note to the meatballs.
Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness and richness.
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and herbs (such as parsley or oregano) season the meatballs to perfection.

For the Creamy Dijon Gravy:

Butter: Adds richness to the gravy.
Flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
Dijon mustard: The star ingredient that gives the gravy its tangy, sharp flavor.
Beef broth: The base of the gravy, providing savory depth.
Heavy cream: For a creamy, smooth texture in the gravy.
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) round out the flavor of the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Meatballs:

Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, Parmesan cheese, and seasoning. Mix until just combined.
Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. Make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.
Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they are fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.

Making the Creamy Dijon Gravy:

Sauté the Butter: In the same skillet, add butter and melt it over medium heat. Use the remnants of the meatball drippings to add extra flavor to the gravy.
Prepare the Roux: Add the flour to the skillet and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the gravy.
Add the Liquid: Gradually add the beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in the Dijon mustard and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Finish with Cream: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the gravy. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combine the Meatballs and Gravy: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, spooning the creamy Dijon gravy over them. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the meatballs are fully coated in the gravy and heated through.

How to Serve Meatballs in Creamy Dijon Gravy

Once your meatballs in creamy Dijon gravy are ready, you can serve them in several ways. Here are some ideas:

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy gravy is perfect when poured over buttery mashed potatoes. This makes a satisfying and comforting meal.
Rice: A great option if you prefer a lighter dish that still soaks up all that creamy gravy.
Pasta: Tossing the meatballs and gravy with pasta makes for a simple but delicious meal.
Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier, lower-carb option, serve the meatballs over steamed veggies such as broccoli or green beans.
Crusty Bread: Serve the meatballs with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.

Variations of Meatballs in Creamy Dijon Gravy

One of the best parts of this recipe is how customizable it is. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary preferences:

Meat: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or lamb in place of beef and pork for a leaner alternative.
Herbs: Experiment with different herbs in the meatball mixture and gravy. Thyme, rosemary, and even a bit of tarragon can add extra layers of flavor.
Gluten-Free: Swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use oats for a healthier option.
Spicy: Add a touch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meatballs or gravy for an added kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use a different type of mustard? While Dijon mustard adds a tangy flavor to the gravy, you can substitute with other mustard varieties such as yellow mustard or whole grain mustard. Each will give the sauce a slightly different taste.

3. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

4. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make the meatballs in a slow cooker. Brown the meatballs as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the gravy ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Conclusion

Meatballs in creamy Dijon gravy are the perfect comfort food, offering a rich, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. The combination of tender meatballs and creamy mustard gravy is a timeless classic that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Now that you have all the tools you need to make this delicious meal, it’s time to give it a try. And don’t forget to share your experience with others—this recipe is too good to keep to yourself!

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking. Enjoy your hearty, creamy, and utterly irresistible meatballs in Dijon gravy tonight!