Traditional German Meatballs with Savory Gravy

Traditional German Meatballs with Savory Gravy

These traditional German meatballs are infused with warming spices and paired with a rich, savory gravy. Perfect as a standalone main dish or served with hot mashed potatoes, this recipe offers a hearty and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Portions:8
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Share on Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup milk for meatball mixture
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup finely shredded uncooked, peeled potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
  • teaspoon pepper
  • 2 pounds ground beef

For the Gravy:

  • ¼ cup cubed butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk for gravy

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, shredded potatoes, chopped onion, salt, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and pepper.
  • Crumble the ground beef over the mixture and mix well until fully combined.
  • Shape the mixture into approximately 48 meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs:

  • In a large skillet, melt the cubed butter over medium heat.
  • Add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, cooking until they are browned on all sides and no longer pink in the center.
  • Remove the meatballs from the skillet and keep them warm.

Prepare the Gravy:

  • After removing the meatballs, stir the flour into the skillet with the remaining butter, blending well to form a roux.
  • Gradually add the remaining 3 cups of milk to the skillet, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Bring the gravy to a boil, then cook and stir for about 2 minutes or until thickened.

Combine and Serve:

  • Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, combining them with the gravy.
  • Heat thoroughly before serving.
  • If desired, serve the meatballs with hot mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Pair with a full-bodied red wine such as a German Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) or a rich beer like a Dunkel.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450 kcal | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 30 g | Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 7 g | Salt: 900 mg
————————————————————————————————–
Course Beef / Main Dish
Cuisine German
Diets Nut free