Name: Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Norwegian
Ingredients: 1/2 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 egg; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons butter (plus additional for sautéing); 2 tablespoons flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste

If you’re searching for a dish that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction while bringing a touch of Scandinavian tradition to your table, look no further than Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy. This comforting classic boasts hearty, tender meatballs bathed in a rich, savory brown gravy that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. Bursting with flavor and amazingly simple to prepare, this recipe invites you to discover a timeless favorite that will quickly become a centerpiece in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food at Its Best: The rich brown gravy and juicy meatballs create a soothing meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Each component highlights authentic Norwegian cooking without requiring hard-to-find spices or complicated steps.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy these tender meatballs, making it ideal for home dinners or entertaining guests.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect over mashed potatoes, noodles, or even rice, this dish adapts well to what you have on hand.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the meatballs and gravy in advance, saving time on busy days without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation for making Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy truly shine. Each ingredient contributes to the harmony of flavors, textures, and the inviting color of the dish, transforming simple elements into a beloved classic.

Ground Beef and Pork: A mix of these two meats provides the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
Bread Crumbs: They help keep the meatballs soft and bind the mixture without overwhelming the taste.
Milk: Adds moisture to ensure juicy meatballs.
Onion: Finely chopped to bring a subtle sweetness and depth.
Egg: Acts as a binder for the meatball mixture, ensuring they hold their shape during cooking.
Butter: Used for sautéing and enriching the brown gravy.
Flour: The base for thickening the savory brown gravy.
Beef Broth: Provides robust flavor to the gravy.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a mild tang and umami punch.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors.

Variations for Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy

One of the joys of preparing Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment and personalize the recipe to suit your dietary needs, favorite tastes, or available ingredients—each twist adds a unique touch to this classic dish.

Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meat substitutes or lentils blended with oats for a meat-free adaptation.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill, parsley, or thyme to the meat mixture for a fragrant Scandinavian flair.
Gravy Richness: Stir in a splash of cream or sour cream to make the brown gravy even more luscious.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the meatballs for subtle warmth.

Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy Comfort Food Classic

How to Make Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork with bread crumbs, chopped onions, milk, and egg. Season with salt and pepper, then gently mix everything until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat which can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Form and Brown the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into even-sized meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat, and brown the meatballs on all sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Brown Gravy

Using the same skillet, melt additional butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture until it turns a deep golden brown, then gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens smoothly.

Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in Gravy

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, coating them evenly in the rich brown gravy. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the meatballs to stay tender.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Adjust salt and pepper to taste, garnish as desired, and enjoy your Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy while warm alongside your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy

Don’t Overmix: Handle the meat mixture gently for juicy, tender meatballs.
Uniform Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to ensure even cooking.
Brown Gravy Patience: Allow the roux to reach a deep color for richer flavor without burning.
Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the gravy at a gentle simmer to maintain delicate meatball texture.
Rest Meatballs: Let them sit briefly after cooking to lock in the juices.

How to Serve Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy

Garnishes

Simple garnishes such as fresh chopped parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of finely grated nutmeg can add vibrant color and a slight aromatic lift to your dish.

Side Dishes

Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or even steamed vegetables like carrots and green beans to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these meatballs over fluffy rice or inside a fresh, crusty bread bowl to soak up every bit of the luscious brown gravy for an unforgettable presentation that delights the eye and palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to enjoy a ready-to-eat comforting meal later in the week.

Freezing

Freeze cooked meatballs with gravy separately in freezer-friendly containers or bags for up to 3 months. This makes meal prep easy and efficient for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain the integrity of the meatballs and prevent the gravy from separating or becoming too thick.

FAQs

Can I use just one type of meat for the meatballs?

Absolutely! While the traditional recipe combines beef and pork for a balance of flavor and moisture, using just ground beef or pork works well too if that’s what you have on hand.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and ensure the flour used for the gravy is a gluten-free alternative like rice or almond flour.

How long do the meatballs need to cook?

Browning the meatballs should take about 8-10 minutes, and then they should simmer in gravy for another 10-15 minutes to become fully cooked and absorb all the flavors.

Can I prepare Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the meatballs and gravy separately or together, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve without losing any deliciousness.

What’s a great side dish to serve with these meatballs?

Classic mashed potatoes are a perfect match, but creamy egg noodles, buttered vegetables, or a simple green salad can also complement well.

Final Thoughts

Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy invites you to savor a truly comforting dish that brings warmth, tradition, and rich flavor to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, this recipe is straightforward, versatile, and delicious. Embrace this classic, try out the variations, and enjoy the cozy comfort that every bite delivers.

Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy

Author: Brooklyn
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Contains meat and dairy

Print Recipe

Description

Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy is a comforting Scandinavian classic featuring tender meatballs made from a blend of ground beef and pork, simmered in a rich, savory brown gravy. This easy-to-make dish offers hearty flavor, family-friendly appeal, and versatile serving options that pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork with bread crumbs, finely chopped onions, milk, and egg. Season with salt and pepper. Gently mix everything until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Form and Brown the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into even-sized meatballs about the size of a golf ball. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then brown the meatballs on all sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside on a plate.
Make the Brown Gravy: Using the same skillet, melt additional butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook until it turns a deep golden brown, then gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens smoothly.
Simmer Meatballs in Gravy: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, coating them evenly with the brown gravy. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and meatballs to remain tender.
Final Seasoning and Serve: Adjust salt and pepper to taste, garnish with optional herbs as desired, and enjoy the Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy warm alongside your favorite sides.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender and juicy.
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form uniform meatballs for even cooking.
Allow the roux to reach a deep golden brown color for richer gravy flavor without burning.
Keep the gravy at a gentle simmer rather than boiling to maintain delicate meatball texture.
Let cooked meatballs rest briefly to lock in juices before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Norwegian