Kotlecky (Ukrainian Meatballs)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Calories: 526.6 per serving
Description
Kotlecky, or Ukrainian meatballs, are a staple of comfort food with a rich and savory flavor profile. This recipe, passed down through the years, combines ground beef and pork with fragrant onions, garlic, eggs, and sour cream, making for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. With a perfect balance of ingredients, these meatballs are not only delicious but also economical, stretching a small amount of meat into a substantial meal. Serve them alongside mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for a wholesome family dinner. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to serve a crowd.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1/2 lb | You can use lean or regular. |
| Ground Pork | 1/2 lb | Adds moisture and flavor. |
| Onion | 1/2 medium | Finely chopped. |
| Garlic Clove | 1 clove | Minced or finely chopped. |
| Milk | 1/3 cup | Use whole milk for creaminess. |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature preferred. |
| Sour Cream | 1/2 cup | For richness and tang. |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust according to preference. |
| Black Pepper | To taste | Freshly ground, if possible. |
| Vegetable Oil | For frying | For browning the meatballs. |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 526.6 |
| Total Fat | 33 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 203.9 mg |
| Sodium | 358.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugars | 2.4 g |
| Protein | 32.8 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Bread: Start by squeezing the milk out of the bread (use 2-3 slices of white or whole wheat bread) to make sure it’s well-soaked, and then discard the excess milk. The soaked bread helps keep the meatballs moist and tender.
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Mix the Meatball Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Add the bread (squeezed of milk) to the mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should feel moist and slightly sticky.
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Shape the Meatballs: Once the mixture is well-mixed, take small portions of the meat mixture and shape them into 8 large meatballs. Be sure to compact them slightly so they hold their shape when cooking.
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Brown the Meatballs: Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the pan. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
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Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Transfer the browned meatballs to an ovenproof casserole dish. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
-
Final Browning: After 30 minutes, remove the cover from the casserole dish and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the meatballs to brown and become slightly crisp on top. This will give them an appealing golden color and enhance their flavor.
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Serve: Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. These meatballs are perfect when paired with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli, but feel free to serve them with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Success
- Moisture Balance: If you find that your meatball mixture is too dry, add a little extra milk or sour cream to achieve the right consistency.
- Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking, or you can freeze them before cooking for up to 3 months.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding finely chopped herbs like parsley or dill to the meatball mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
Recipe Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Kotlecky can be served in a variety of ways. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta. You could also serve them over a bed of sautéed vegetables or a simple green salad for a lighter meal.
- Protein Boost: This recipe is rich in protein, making it a great choice for those looking to fuel up on a high-protein meal. The combination of beef and pork ensures a balance of lean protein and flavorful fat, making these meatballs both filling and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Kotlecky (Ukrainian meatballs) are a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner. They’re flavorful, easy to prepare, and fill your home with a comforting aroma as they bake in the oven. This recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak the flavors to suit your tastes, and it stretches a small amount of meat to feed a family of four. Whether you make them for a family dinner or for guests, Kotlecky is sure to be a hit every time.
