Norwegian Meatballs
Juicy Norwegian meatballs with rich flavors of onion, Worcestershire, and Burgundy wine, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions with a savory mushroom gravy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, egg, oatmeal, dry onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, catsup, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning; mix well.
- Form the meat mixture into small balls.
- Brown the meatballs lightly in a small amount of butter.
- Bake the meatballs in an oven preheated to 350°F until they are firm and browned.
- Prepare brown gravy mix according to package instructions, using Burgundy wine instead of water.
- Add canned mushrooms to the gravy and serve over the meatballs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting ground turkey for ground chuck. If you don't have oatmeal, breadcrumbs can work as a binder. Adding grated onion instead of soup mix can enhance flavor and moisture. Adjust Worcestershire and mustard to taste for a more personalized kick. For added depth, try incorporating a splash of soy sauce into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Norwegian meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. They also make a great appetizer when served with toothpicks. For dessert, try pairing with Danish Butter Cookies to end the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet with a bit of gravy over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring they stay moist by covering with a damp paper towel.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Meatballs contains roughly 928 calories, with 30g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing uncooked, form the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a ziploc bag. Cooked meatballs can also be frozen in gravy. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of Burgundy wine for the gravy?
If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with beef broth or a mixture of grape juice and vinegar for a similar depth of flavor. Keep in mind that using broth will result in a milder taste, so you might want to enhance the gravy with additional seasonings.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free oats or breadcrumbs. Ensure your dry onion soup mix and brown gravy mix are gluten-free as well. By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors while accommodating dietary needs.
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).