Easy Potato Meatballs made with ground pork, grated potatoes, and savory spices. Naturally gluten-free, quick to make, and utterly delicious!
Growing up, there was one dish that could make the whole house pause—my mom’s Easy Potato Meatballs. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an event. I still remember the rhythmic sound of her grating potatoes, the fragrant aroma of garlic and paprika filling the kitchen, and the irresistible sizzle of meatballs frying in the pan.
These meatballs were a staple for family dinners, but they always felt special. Maybe it was how mom would shape them just so or the way she insisted on serving them with her homemade Bulgarian cucumber soup. Either way, they were magic.
Fast forward to now, and I’ve carried this recipe into my own kitchen. Every time I make them, I’m transported back to those cozy evenings when life felt simple and delicious. They’re more than meatballs—they’re a taste of nostalgia wrapped in comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Potato Meatballs Recipe?
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Perfect for anyone avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.
- Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep—ideal for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with Flavor: A combination of garlic, paprika, and oregano gives these meatballs a rich, savory kick.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, they’re versatile enough to pair with just about anything.
Ingredient Notes:
Let’s break down what makes these Easy Potato Meatballs so special, one ingredient at a time:
- Ground Pork: Pork adds a juicy, flavorful base, but feel free to substitute it with turkey, beef, or a plant-based alternative.
- Grated Potato: This is the game-changer! It keeps the meatballs light and moist while adding a subtle earthy flavor.
- Garlic and Onion: These two are the dynamic duo of any great meatball. Pro tip: grate the onion if you want a smooth texture.
- Paprika and Oregano: These spices add warmth and depth, giving the meatballs their signature Bulgarian-inspired flavor.
- Avocado Oil: Ideal for frying because of its high smoke point, but olive or vegetable oil works too.
How To Make Easy Potato Meatballs?
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Here’s how to make these mouthwatering meatballs:
- Prep the Ingredients
Start by peeling and grating the potato. Then, squeeze out all the excess water—this step is crucial to avoid soggy meatballs. Trust me, it’s worth the effort. - Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, grated potato, onion, garlic, egg, and seasonings. Use your hands to mix it all together. Sure, it’s messy, but that’s half the fun, right? - Shape the Meatballs
Scoop the mixture into equal portions using a spoon or ice cream scoop. Roll them into balls, then flatten them slightly for that traditional Bulgarian look. - Fry to Perfection
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. - Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Pair them with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even a dollop of yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
Storage Options:
If you have leftovers (and that’s a big “if”), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispy exterior. Planning ahead? Freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy.
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Variations and Substitutions:
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists to try:
- Switch Up the Protein: Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option, or go plant-based with lentils or chickpeas.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Bake Instead of Frying: For a healthier spin, bake the meatballs at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What to Serve with Easy Potato Meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile, but here’s how I like to serve them:
- Mashed Potatoes: Because what’s better than meatballs and mash?
- Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing side to balance the richness.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any juices left on your plate.
- Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of tzatziki or plain yogurt takes these to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Turkey, beef, or even lamb would work beautifully in this recipe.
Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake them at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure to squeeze out all the water from the grated potato and mix the ingredients thoroughly.
So, are you ready to give these Easy Potato Meatballs a try? They’re comforting, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. I’d love to hear how they turn out—drop me a comment or share your photos! Happy cooking!
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Easy Potato Meatballs
Ingredients
- 450 g ground pork or any ground meat of your choice
- 1 small onion grated or finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium potato peeled and grated
- 1 medium egg
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp paprika to taste
- 1/4 tsp oregano to taste
- 1/4 cup avocado oil or any cooking oil of your preference
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Peel and grate the potato, then squeeze out excess water using your hands or a clean cheesecloth. This step ensures the meatballs remain firm and do not fall apart during cooking.
Mix the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potato, ground pork, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Use clean hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix until well incorporated.
Shape the Meatballs:
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop for uniformity, shape the mixture into balls of your desired size. Slightly flatten each ball if you wish to follow the traditional Bulgarian style.
Heat the Oil:
- Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer before adding the meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs:
- Place the meatballs into the skillet, leaving adequate space between each to ensure even cooking. Fry for approximately 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your preferred accompaniments, such as mashed potatoes, cucumber salad, or crusty bread.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
