This Meatballs and Gravy recipe is the ultimate comfort meal, perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknight meals. With juicy meatballs smothered in rich brown gravy, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart. It’s versatile enough to impress guests or serve on a casual night, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and Worcestershire sauce elevates the meatballs, creating a savory dish that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a delightful meal that fits any preference.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them, allowing for quick meals on busy days.
- Family Favorite: This hearty dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need to make Meatballs and Gravy.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the meatballs and helps achieve that perfect browning.
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps create a smooth roux and gravy without lumps.
Ingredients
To make delicious Meatballs and Gravy, gather the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon parsley (fresh or dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup onion (thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups beef stock
How to Make Meatballs and Gravy
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, paprika, and ground mustard. Mix until fully combined.
Step 2: Form Meatballs
Portion the mixture into 1 1/2 sections and roll into approximately 25 meatballs.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
In a large skillet over medium heat, begin browning the meatballs on all sides. Once browned, remove them from the pan. Discard all but approximately 2 tablespoons of grease from the pan.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add butter to the skillet along with sliced onions. Sauté until lightly browned and tender. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 5: Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour into the pan while whisking to form a roux. Be sure to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. Cook this mixture for about one minute while whisking regularly.
Step 6: Create Gravy with Meatballs
Pour in beef stock while whisking to prevent clumping. Lower the heat to maintain a simmer before adding back in the meatballs. Season with remaining garlic powder and an additional teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Cook for another 8-10 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and gravy thickens. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Enjoy your hearty meal!
How to Serve Meatballs and Gravy
Serving Meatballs and Gravy is an opportunity to elevate this comforting dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delicious serving suggestions that will delight your guests.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for soaking up the rich gravy. Top with extra gravy for a decadent touch.
On a Sub Roll
- Transform your meatballs into a hearty meatball sub. Place them on a toasted sub roll, add cheese, and top with marinara sauce for an Italian twist.
With Rice
- Serve meatballs and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the flavors of the gravy beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
As a Meatball Bowl
- Create a meatball bowl by layering cooked quinoa or farro, steamed vegetables, and meatballs topped with gravy. This is a healthy and filling option.
In a Casserole
- Combine meatballs and gravy with cooked pasta in a baking dish. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.
How to Perfect Meatballs and Gravy
To achieve the best Meatballs and Gravy, follow these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices elevate the taste of your meatballs significantly compared to dried ones.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients for your meatballs, mix just until combined to keep them tender.
- Brown Properly: Ensure you brown the meatballs well on all sides; this adds depth of flavor to both the meatballs and the gravy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your gravy before finishing; adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference for optimal flavor.
- Let it Simmer: Allowing the meatballs to simmer in the gravy helps them absorb flavors, making your dish even more delicious.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your meatballs right after cooking; they can become soggy if left too long in the gravy.
Best Side Dishes for Meatballs and Gravy
Pairing side dishes with Meatballs and Gravy can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread complements the flavors perfectly while adding crunch.
- Steamed Vegetables: Fresh vegetables like green beans or broccoli provide color and balance out the richness of the dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with savory meatballs.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add texture to your meal while soaking up excess gravy.
- Creamed Spinach: This creamy side is rich yet lightens up the overall meal by adding greens.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings freshness to your plate with its crunchy romaine and creamy dressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Meatballs and Gravy, it’s easy to stumble over some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season the meat mixture well. Make sure to add enough salt and spices to enhance the flavor of your meatballs.
Overcrowding the skillet: If you put too many meatballs in the pan at once, they won’t brown properly. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Not letting the gravy simmer: Rushing this step can lead to a thin sauce. Allowing the gravy to simmer thickens it and enhances the flavors.
Using the wrong meat: Ground beef is ideal for meatballs, but using a leaner cut can make them dry. Choose ground beef with some fat content for juiciness.
Skipping refrigeration before cooking: Chilling the meatball mixture helps them hold their shape while cooking. Give them 30 minutes in the fridge before frying.
Ignoring resting time: Letting your cooked meatballs rest allows juices to redistribute. This simple step makes them more flavorful and tender.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Meatballs and Gravy in an airtight container.
- They will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Meatballs and Gravy
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Meatballs and Gravy
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen meatballs for Meatballs and Gravy?
Yes! You can use frozen meatballs; just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are heated thoroughly.
How do I know when my meatballs are cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked. You can also cut one open; it should be no longer pink inside.
Can I customize my Meatballs and Gravy recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different herbs or spices based on your preference or use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
What can I serve with Meatballs and Gravy?
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a satisfying meal.
How long does it take to prepare Meatballs and Gravy?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes, followed by another 30 minutes of cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Meatballs and Gravy is truly a versatile dish that brings comfort food vibes right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep since it freezes well too. Don’t hesitate to get creative with spices or sides; this recipe invites customization! Give it a try today!
Meatballs and Gravy
Indulge in the warm embrace of Meatballs and Gravy, a classic comfort food that brings joy to any dining table. This hearty dish features succulent beef meatballs enveloped in a rich, savory gravy that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or nestled in a toasted sub roll, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among loved ones. Simple enough for novice cooks yet impressive enough for guests, it’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Prepare to delight in every bite of this flavorful feast!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups beef stock
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup onion (thinly sliced)
- salt
- pepper
- Worcestershire sauce
- garlic powder
- paprika
- onion powder
- parsley
- ground mustard
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, and ground mustard. Mix gently until combined.
- Shape mixture into approximately 25 meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches each).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown meatballs on all sides; remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Add butter and onions to the skillet; sauté until tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly.
- Whisk flour into the pan to create a roux; cook for about one minute.
- Gradually add beef stock while whisking to avoid lumps. Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 8-10 minutes until cooked through and gravy thickens.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs with gravy (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
