Gehaktballen Dutch Meatballs

Gehaktballen, or Dutch meatballs, are a comforting and hearty classic, perfect for those who crave rich, flavorful, and perfectly tender bites. This recipe combines a savory blend of ground beef and pork, accented by warm spices like nutmeg and allspice, giving the meatballs a quintessentially Dutch flavor. Soaked breadcrumbs and milk keep them wonderfully moist, while a buttery sear locks in the juices. The meatballs are then simmered in a luscious beef stock, creating a light, flavorful sauce ideal for drizzling over the finished dish. Serve these golden-brown delights with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for an authentic taste of the Netherlands. Whether for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, these gehaktballen are sure to delight with their irresistible aroma and satisfying bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Ground beef
• 250 grams Ground pork
• 75 grams Breadcrumbs
• 60 milliliters Milk
• 1 large Egg
• 1 medium (finely chopped) Onion
• 2 cloves (minced) Garlic
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 0.5 teaspoon Allspice
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 250 milliliters Beef stock

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and soften.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, softened breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3

Using clean hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Avoid overmixing as it can make the meatballs tough.

Step 4

Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. You should get approximately 12-14 meatballs.

Step 5

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the butter over medium heat until melted and bubbling.

Step 6

Add the meatballs to the pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning gently, for about 8-10 minutes.

Step 7

Once the meatballs are browned, pour the beef stock into the pan. Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.

Step 8

Cook the meatballs in the stock for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and tender.

Step 9

Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside. Increase the heat and let the remaining beef stock reduce slightly to form a light sauce.

Step 10

Serve the meatballs hot, drizzled with the sauce, alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a true Dutch experience.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1404.3 grams (1404.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2613

Total Fat 180.80g	232%
Saturated Fat 71.50g	358%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 848mg	283%
Sodium 5627mg	245%
Total Carbohydrate 81.10g	29%
Dietary Fiber 5.60g	20%
Total Sugars 15.80g
Protein 173.50g	347%

Vitamin D 86IU	428%
Calcium 328mg	25%
Iron 16mg	88%
Potassium 1804mg	38%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 61.5%

Protein: 26.2%

Carbs: 12.3%