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    Home / Dinner / Gehaktbal

    Gehaktbal

    A big, juicy Dutch meatball simmered in a rich gravy — the centerpiece of the classic ‘meat, potatoes, vegetables’ Dutch supper.

    ⏱ 15 minPrep time
    🔥 45 minCook time
    🍽 4Servings
    🏷 DinnerCategory
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    Gehaktbal

    The gehaktbal is the Dutch meatball, and the Dutch do not do small: these are plate-filling, tender, gravy-soaked orbs seasoned with nutmeg and mustard. Mashed potatoes and braised red cabbage are their natural companions.

    Every home cook has a cherished version, pan-seared then simmered in stock for a built-in sauce. Mix the meats and seasonings gently — overworking the mixture is the fastest way to a tough ball.

    Dutch / Belgian recipes →

    Step by stepInstructions

    1. Mix the beef, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until just combined — do not overwork.
    2. Shape into 4 large patties or balls.
    3. Brown them well on all sides in the butter and oil over medium-high heat.
    4. Pour in the stock, cover, and simmer gently for about 40 minutes, turning once.
    5. Thicken the pan juices if you like, and serve the balls with mashed potatoes and red cabbage.

    💡 Chef tips & storage

    A gentle hand makes a tender meatball; overmixing turns it dense. The simmering stock becomes a simple, rich gravy.

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    Recipe details

    Prep15 min
    Cook45 min
    Servings4
    CategoryDinner
    PublishedAugust 17, 2026
    Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

    Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

    Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →

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