Dill Meatballs
Dill Meatballs offer a flavorful combination of herbs and tender meat, simmered in a savory tomato sauce—perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, rice, egg, parsley, onion, dill weed, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs and brown them in a frying pan.
- Add tomato juice, water, and butter to the pan with the meatballs.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 45 to 60 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic or substituting the dill weed with fresh dill if available. For a heartier texture, you can replace white rice with brown rice or quinoa. If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can work well. Be mindful of cooking times; ensure the meatballs are thoroughly cooked without drying out. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also add depth to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete dinner, you might want to check out Spaghetti Pork Chops for a similar flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of water or tomato juice to keep them moist. They can also be reheated in the microwave, but cover them to avoid drying out. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in the sauce for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dill Meatballs contains roughly 2821 calories, with 31g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 216g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2672mg per serving (116% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make dill meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook them fully and store them in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce mixed with water. Alternatively, vegetable broth can be used for a lighter sauce, enhancing the flavor with herbs and spices to maintain richness.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure meatballs are fully cooked, check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. The sauce should be bubbling, and the meatballs should be firm and no longer pink in the center. Using a meat thermometer can provide accurate results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).