Meatballs and gravy is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. These juicy, flavorful meatballs are cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Follow this easy recipe to create a hearty and delicious meal that everyone will love.
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 cut into half-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
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely minced yellow onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. This recipe should yield approximately 20 meatballs.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Meatballs: Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the quartered and sliced onion and cook over medium heat until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Garlic Powder: Stir in the garlic powder and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to coat. Cook the flour mixture for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add the Beef Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Gravy: Season the gravy with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, stir in chopped fresh thyme for added flavor.
Step 4: Combine the Meatballs and Gravy
- Add the Meatballs: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them to coat. Let the meatballs simmer in the gravy for an additional 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve: Serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Meat Options: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
- Breadcrumbs: Italian breadcrumbs add extra flavor, but plain breadcrumbs work just as well.
- Gravy Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer. For a thinner gravy, add a bit more beef broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I use pre-made meatballs? A: Yes, you can use pre-made meatballs to save time. Just cook them according to the package instructions and proceed with making the gravy.
Q: What can I serve with meatballs and gravy? A: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even a side of steamed vegetables.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs in the meatballs. For the gravy, replace the flour with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum or coconut flour.
Meatballs and gravy is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory meatballs and rich, flavorful gravy, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Follow this easy recipe to create a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.
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