Hearty Meatballs with Cheddar Cheese, Vegetables, and Savory Sauce

These hearty meatballs packed with flavor and topped with a creamy, tangy sauce are a favorite in many households, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying dish, this recipe is sure to impress. With minced meat, cheddar cheese, fresh vegetables, and a rich homemade sauce, it’s the perfect meal to make for family gatherings or weekend dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a deliciously hearty texture, making it a meal everyone will enjoy. The addition of cheddar cheese gives the meatballs a unique twist, creating a mouthwatering flavor that blends beautifully with the vegetables and seasonings. The sauce adds an extra layer of creaminess and tang, while the fresh radish and lettuce salad keeps the dish refreshing and balanced. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just to delight your family, these meatballs are a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

• 2 lb (900 g) minced meat

• 2 chicken eggs

• 3 onions

• 2.5 oz (70 g) breadcrumbs

• 1 onion

• 1 carrot

• 2 garlic cloves

• 2 potatoes

• 1 carrot

• 1/2 sweet red pepper

• Mushrooms

• 7 oz (200 g) red cheddar cheese

• Olive oil

• Vegetable oil

• Butter

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

• Dried garlic

• Paprika

• Oregano

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons sour cream

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic

• Basil

• 5.3 oz (150 ml) warm water

For the lettuce:

• 4 radishes

• Lettuce leaves

• 1/2 red sweet pepper

• Dill

• Salt

• Olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by preparing the vegetables. Peel and finely chop the onions, carrots, garlic, and potatoes. Dice the sweet red pepper and chop the mushrooms.

2. In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the eggs, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, grated carrots, minced garlic, and chopped sweet pepper. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, dried garlic, and oregano.

3. Mix everything together until well combined. Then, shape the mixture into small meatballs.

4. In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

5. For the sauce, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, warm water, paprika, dried garlic, basil, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.

6. To make the lettuce, wash and slice the radishes, chop the red sweet pepper, and combine with fresh lettuce leaves and dill. Season with salt and drizzle with olive oil.

7. Serve the meatballs with the creamy sauce on top and the fresh lettuce salad on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings. The total cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, including prep and cooking.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: You can substitute the minced meat with plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a different texture and flavor.

• Cheese Variations: If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Gouda could work well as an alternative to cheddar.

• Spice It Up: Add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat meatballs in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave them, though they may lose some of their crispness.

FAQs

How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?

You can add more herbs and spices to suit your taste, such as thyme, rosemary, or a bit of cumin. Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro also makes a great addition.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just make sure to season well to ensure the flavor is rich and tasty.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a little bit of cornstarch dissolved in water. Alternatively, you can reduce the sauce by simmering it for a longer period.

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, the meatballs can be frozen both before and after cooking. To freeze before cooking, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. To freeze cooked meatballs, simply store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

What can I serve this dish with?

These meatballs go well with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a side of rice. You can also serve them with a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Yes, store-bought breadcrumbs can be used, but if you prefer, you can make your own by toasting bread and pulsing it in a food processor.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, other cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or even Parmesan can be substituted for the cheddar.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

You can check the internal temperature of the meatballs with a meat thermometer. The ideal temperature for cooked meatballs is 160°F (71°C).

Can I add more vegetables to the meatballs?

Definitely! Feel free to add finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini to the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I skip the sauce?

Yes, if you prefer, the meatballs can be served without the sauce. They are still delicious on their own or with a side of dipping sauce like marinara.

Conclusion

This recipe for hearty meatballs with cheddar cheese, vegetables, and a creamy sauce is a delicious, comforting dish that your family is sure to love. With its rich flavors and fresh, balanced sides, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress!