Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy (Kjøttkaker)

Ah, Norwegian meatballs pure comfort food with that rich, savory flavor you’d expect from a Scandinavian classic. These Kjøttkaker are small, tender, and filled with warm spices, then smothered in a silky brown gravy that ties everything together. Trust me, you’re going to love this it’s a meal that feels like a warm Norwegian hug on a plate!

Why You’ll Love Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy (Kjøttkaker)

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: It pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, sweet lingonberry sauce, or even buttery noodles you can customize it to match your mood.

Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and simple ingredients make it a wallet-friendly meal without compromising on taste.

Quick and Easy: The meatballs come together quickly, and the rich brown gravy is a breeze to prepare perfect for busy nights.

Customizable: Season them your way! Add a pinch more allspice or omit the onion if you prefer it simpler.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy (Kjøttkaker)

Here’s the magic of these Norwegian meatballs it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, but the result is rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Let’s break it down:

Ground Beef: The base of the meatballs. It provides texture and savory flavor.

Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the mixture.

Allspice: Gives a warm, rich taste a quintessential Scandinavian flavor.

Flour: Helps to bind the mixture together and thickens the rich brown gravy.

Beef Broth: Forms the base for the savory sauce that smothers the meatballs.

Milk: Adds softness to the mixture and a creamy texture.

Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste simple, but powerful.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below).

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment:

Start by preheating a large skillet over medium heat. A warm pan is key to getting that rich, crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and moist.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, allspice, flour, milk, and a dash of salt and black pepper. Mix until ingredients are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix you want your meatballs to stay light and tender.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:

Add a bit of oil or butter to your warm skillet. Let it melt and become shimmering this prevents sticking and adds a nice color to your meatballs.

Assemble the Dish:

Using your hands or a small scoop, form mixture into golf ball–sized meatballs. Roll them gently and drop them into the skillet. Brown them on all sides, turning frequently.

Cook to Perfection:

Once the meatballs are nicely browned, pour in the beef broth. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. The broth will absorb all those rich meaty flavors and become a savory brown gravy.

Finishing Touches:

Remove the lid and allow the sauce to reduce slightly if you’d like it a bit thicker. Season with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve these warm, hearty meatballs with mashed potatoes, noodles, or a dollop of lingonberry sauce on the side. Comfort food at its finest!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Norwegian Meatballs in Brown Gravy (Kjøttkaker)

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture is perfect with rich brown gravy.
• Lingonberry Sauce: Adds a sweet-tart contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try carrots, parsnips, or green beans.
• Egg Noodles: Provide a hearty base for all that savory goodness.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for an additional layer of flavor.
• If you want a thinner sauce, simply add more broth.
• Prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavors deepen.
• To keep meatballs uniform, use a small cookie scoop.
• Try serving them with a creamy dill sauce instead of brown gravy for a fresh twist.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use ground pork instead of ground beef?
Yes, a mixture of ground pork and beef is a traditional variation in Norway.

2. How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

3. Can I freeze Norwegian meatballs for later?
Yes! Prepare, cook, and cool them first. Then freeze in a single layer on a sheet tray, and transfer to a bag once firm.

4. Why do I need allspice in this recipe?
Allspice adds a warm, rich flavor that’s traditional in Scandinavian cooking.

5. What can I serve them with if I don’t have lingonberry sauce?
Cranberry sauce or a simple berry compote makes a wonderful substitute.

6. How do I keep my meatballs from falling apart while cooking?
Make sure the mixture is well blended and chilled first. Also, avoid overmixing.

7. Can I make this meal in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the meatballs, you can transfer them to a slow cooker with broth and let them cook on low for 4-6 hours.

8. Are Norwegian meatballs kid-friendly?
Totally! The savory flavor and small size make them perfect for children.

9. Why do we use flour in the mixture and in the sauce?
Flour thickens the mixture and the sauce, adding body and texture.

10. Can I use a non-dairy milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, just opt for a neutral-tasting plant milk like oat or plain soy.

Conclusion

Norwegian meatballs in brown gravy (Kjøttkaker) are more than just food they’re pure Scandinavian comfort on a plate. Whether you serve them with creamy mashed potatoes or a dollop of lingonberry sauce, these rich, hearty meatballs bring a warm, homely feeling to your dinner table. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your family to this classic, soul-satisfying meal. Trust me it’s a keeper!

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