If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, you have to try this Mountain Meatballs Recipe. These meatballs are large, juicy, and packed with rich flavors from a delicious blend of beef and pork, seasoned perfectly and simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce that brings everything together in such a wonderful way. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or bringing something special to a potluck, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy your deepest comfort food desires.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients with straightforward roles make this Mountain Meatballs Recipe shine. Each component contributes balance—texture from the breadcrumbs, depth from the Worcestershire sauce, and richness from the Parmesan and sour cream. Grab these staples to get started on this cozy, hearty meal.
- Ground beef (1½ pounds): The main protein that keeps these meatballs juicy and flavorful.
- Ground pork (½ pound, optional): Adds extra richness and tenderness.
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Helps bind and soften the meatballs for the perfect bite.
- Eggs (2 large): Essential for holding the mixture together.
- Milk (½ cup): Keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a nutty, savory note that enhances the flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings a tangy umami boost.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Lends a subtle kick and complexity.
- Small onion (1, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses a fragrant depth to the meat.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances and amplifies all the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Gives an essential mild heat.
- Dried Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Provides herbal undertones for that classic comforting taste.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Creates the creamy base for the sauce.
- Beef broth (½ cup): Adds savory depth to the sauce.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and tangy.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the savory flavor of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning as needed for perfect flavor balance.
How to Make Mountain Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Mix the Meatball Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coating of oil. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, optional ground pork, and all your binding agents—breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk. Incorporate the Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined; the key here is not to overmix to keep your meatballs tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs
Form the mixture into large meatballs—about two inches wide is perfect for that mountain-sized bite we’re aiming for. Place them evenly on your prepared baking sheet, giving them space to cook through thoroughly. Bake in the preheated oven for around 20 to 25 minutes until the meatballs are nicely browned and cooked through. This initial baking step ensures they hold their shape and develop a nice crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
While the meatballs bake, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and sour cream in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion powder, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Allow this mixture to gently simmer, melding together into a smooth and savory sauce that’s perfect for coating those meatballs in the next step.
Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in the Sauce
Once your meatballs are baked, transfer them to the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Let them simmer together for 5 to 10 minutes so the meatballs soak up the luscious flavors and the sauce thickens just enough. This final step guarantees every bite is deeply infused with that signature mountain goodness.
How to Serve Mountain Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a beautiful burst of color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds a lovely finish and an extra punch of savory flavor.
Side Dishes
Mountain Meatballs Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or steamed rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. For a lighter contrast, a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables work beautifully alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, stack the meatballs in a rustic casserole dish and pour the sauce over just before serving. You can also serve them as hearty sliders with a dollop of the creamy sauce for an elevated party appetizer that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your meatballs and sauce together in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy, comforting meal anytime you need it.
Freezing
This Mountain Meatballs Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Just cool them fully, then pack into airtight containers or resealable freezer bags. Frozen properly, they maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months, perfect for a future busy night.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your meatballs gently on the stovetop in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. This method keeps them moist and preserves the creamy sauce perfectly. Alternatively, use a microwave, but ensure to cover and stir every minute or two for even heating.
FAQs
Can I make Mountain Meatballs Recipe without pork?
Absolutely! While adding pork enriches the flavor and tenderness, using all beef still yields delicious, juicy meatballs. Just adjust seasoning if needed, since pork adds a bit of sweetness and fat.
Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup?
You can try making a homemade mushroom sauce if you prefer fresh ingredients, using sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth. However, the canned soup brings a uniquely smooth texture and depth that complements this recipe perfectly.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
The classic Mountain Meatballs Recipe uses breadcrumbs, which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones, or try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as alternatives.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix and shape the meatballs up to a day in advance, then store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake and finish with the sauce when you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.
What can I add to the sauce for extra flavor?
Sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions add wonderful texture and depth to the sauce. A splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika can also add a subtle twist that takes the sauce to the next level.
Final Thoughts
This Mountain Meatballs Recipe is one of those recipes that instantly feels like home. The combination of juicy, tender meatballs and that creamy mushroom sauce creates a meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. I promise once you try it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen, perfect for cozy dinners all year round. Get ready to enjoy some serious comfort food bliss!
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Mountain Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mountain Meatballs are a hearty and comforting dish featuring large, juicy beef and pork meatballs baked to perfection and then simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for a filling family dinner or potluck, these meatballs combine savory seasonings with a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- ½ pound ground pork (optional for added richness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Sauce
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix just until combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Form and bake meatballs: Shape the mixture into large meatballs, about 2 inches wide, and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned on the outside and cooked through.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste in a large skillet. Heat over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer meatballs in sauce: Add the baked meatballs into the skillet with the simmering sauce. Cook together for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Serve the warm, creamy meatballs over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Notes
- These meatballs are great for hearty dinners or potlucks, providing a comforting and filling option.
- They freeze well: cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For extra texture and flavor, consider adding mushrooms or sautéed onions to the sauce before simmering.
