Norway Meatballs
Norwegian meatballs feature tender ground beef infused with subtle spices like nutmeg and ginger, creating warm, comforting flavors. Browning in butter and simmering in water gravy results in juicy, flavorful meatballs perfect for serving over rice or noodles, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, traditional dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and brown them in butter.
- Simmer the meatballs in water gravy for 1 hour.
- Serve the meatballs over rice or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you don’t have cracker crumbs, breadcrumbs or oatmeal can work in a pinch. Experiment with spices like allspice or cinnamon for a unique flavor twist. Browning the meatballs in butter adds richness, but olive oil is a healthier alternative. For a heartier dish, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
These Norway meatballs are delightful served over a bed of rice or noodles, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair them with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They also complement well with a rich sauce, similar to Beef Stroganoff Supreme, making for a comforting dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop in a skillet with a bit of water or gravy to keep them moist. They can also be frozen for up to three months; let them cool completely before placing them in freezer bags.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norway Meatballs contains roughly 648 calories, with 10g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 727mg per serving (32% 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 these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form them into balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs and cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with Norway meatballs?
Norway meatballs pair well with various sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a creamy mushroom sauce. A side of lingonberry sauce can add a sweet contrast, reminiscent of traditional Swedish dishes. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or a crisp salad would work wonderfully.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The best way to ensure meatballs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Alternatively, you can cut one open to check for any pinkness inside; they should be evenly browned and fully cooked. Simmering them for an hour helps achieve this.
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).