These juicy, flavor-packed meatballs combine smoky paprika and tangy Dijon mustard for the perfect bite—crispy outside, tender inside! Ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
- ½ lb (225g) ground pork (or use all beef)
- ½ cup (50g) breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika (sweet or hot, your choice!)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For Serving
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta & marinara
- Creamy mustard sauce (mix ½ cup mayo + 1 tbsp Dijon + 1 tsp honey)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Binder
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 mins (keeps meatballs moist).
2. Mix the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Beef + pork
- Soaked breadcrumbs
- Egg, mustard, paprika, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper
- Mix just until combined (overmixing = tough meatballs).
3. Shape & Cook
- Roll into 1-inch balls (about 24 total).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook in batches (don’t overcrowd!) for 8-10 mins, turning to brown all sides.
4. Serve!
- Let rest 2-3 mins (juices redistribute).
- Serve with dipping sauces, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
✅ Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 mins on a parchment-lined tray.
Q: How to keep them juicy?
➡️ Use fatty meat (80/20 beef) + don’t overmix!
Q: Can I freeze uncooked meatballs?
✅ Absolutely! Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen (add 5 mins to cook time).
Q: What’s a good sub for pork?
➡️ Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb all work.
Q: Why do my meatballs fall apart?
⚠️ Too little binder (egg/breadcrumbs) or skillet not hot enough.
Serving Ideas
🍝 Toss in marinara for spaghetti & meatballs
🥪 Stuff into subs with melted cheese
🍽 Appetizer tray with toothpicks & sauces
Nutrition (per serving): ~250 kcal (6 meatballs)
These boldly seasoned meatballs are weeknight heroes—easy, versatile, and always a hit! 😋
Love heat? Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the mix! 🌶️
