Dilly Meatballs
Dilly meatballs feature flavorful ground beef combined with fresh dill, tender breadcrumbs, and a creamy sour cream sauce, making them a comforting and savory dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, minced onion, torn bread crumbs, salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon dill, and 2 tablespoons water in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a 12-inch skillet, heat salad oil over medium heat and brown the meatballs, half at a time. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet drippings, stir in flour and 1 teaspoon dill.
- Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly, and bring to a boil.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and bring to a boil again.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Skim off any fat from the surface.
- Stir in sour cream and heat through without boiling.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding some minced garlic or fresh parsley to the meatball mixture. If you don't have dill weed, fresh dill can be used, just adjust the quantity to taste. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread or breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of rice for a comforting meal. They also pair well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. For a fun twist, try them in a sub roll with melted cheese, making a delicious meatball sandwich. Browse more American recipes for more hearty options.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep them moist, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dilly Meatballs contains roughly 1067 calories, with 24g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2929mg per serving (127% 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 freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, form the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. If freezing cooked, ensure they are cooled completely and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you need a substitute for sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works well and adds a nice tang. You can also use crème fraîche or even a mixture of milk and lemon juice to mimic the texture and acidity. Adjust the amount to your taste.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, cut one open to check that it's no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
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).