Meatballs and Gravy Recipe

This Meatballs and Gravy recipe is a classic comfort food that delivers rich, flavorful meatballs paired with a creamy, savory gravy. Made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, these meatballs are browned to perfection and simmered in a luscious homemade gravy with caramelized onions and beef broth. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, served over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a special occasion treat, this easy meatballs recipe is sure to please. It’s a perfect blend of delicious flavors and comforting textures, making it a must-try dish for meatball lovers!

Ingredients

Meatballs:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/4 cup finely minced yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Italian or plain breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Meatball Gravy:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, quartered and sliced into 1/2-inch slices
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh thyme (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, minced yellow onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
   • Using a 1 1/2 tablespoon scoop, form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Refrigerate the meatballs for 30 minutes to help them firm up.
2. Brown the Meatballs:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
   • Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, adding more oil as needed.
   • Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover them to keep warm.
3. Prepare the Gravy:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium to medium-low heat.
   • Add the sliced onions and cook for 7-10 minutes, until they are soft and lightly browned around the edges.
   • Sprinkle the onions with garlic powder and flour. Stir constantly and cook for an additional 2 minutes over medium-low heat.
4. Make the Gravy:
   • Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for several minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken.
   • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the Meatballs in the Gravy:
   • Add the browned meatballs back to the skillet and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the flavors of the gravy.
   • Sprinkle with chopped fresh thyme before serving.

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Tips

• Chill the Meatballs: Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape while cooking.
• Browning in Batches: Browning the meatballs in batches ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice sear.
• Thicken Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken it to your liking. If it’s too thick, add a bit more beef broth.

Variations and Substitutions

• Ground Meat Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter version.
• Breadcrumb Alternatives: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils to make a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe.
• Add Veggies: Add mushrooms or carrots to the gravy for more flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them before or after cooking for later use.

Can I use store-bought gravy?
While homemade gravy adds a richer flavor, you can use store-bought gravy as a substitute if you’re short on time.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Over Mashed Potatoes: Meatballs and gravy are perfect when served over creamy mashed potatoes or rice.
• With Vegetables: Pair with steamed green beans, peas, or sautéed spinach for a well-rounded meal.
• As a Sandwich: Serve the meatballs and gravy on a toasted roll for a hearty meatball sandwich.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: Meatballs in savory gravy are a timeless comfort food that everyone loves.
• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that deliver big flavors.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for family dinners, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Enjoy these hearty, flavorful meatballs and gravy that are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!