Meatballs and Gravy Recipe

Looking for a comforting, flavorful meal? This meatball and gravy recipe features tender beef meatballs smothered in a rich, homemade gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this easy-to-make recipe combines classic ingredients like ground beef, onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce, simmered in a savory beef broth. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice, this dish will become a family favorite. Ideal for meal prep or weeknight meals, it’s a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a hearty homemade meal. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite herbs and spices! Perfect for those who love classic comfort food.

Ingredients

Meatballs:

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• ¼ cup finely minced yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup Italian or plain breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Meatball Gravy:

• ¼ cup butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, quartered and sliced into ½-inch pieces
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped thyme (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, minced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
2. Using a 1½ tablespoon scoop, form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Refrigerate the meatballs for 30 minutes to help them set.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they’re not crowded in the pan.
2. Brown the meatballs on all sides, adding more oil as needed. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium to medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 7-10 minutes, until softened and lightly browned on the edges.
2. Sprinkle the onions with garlic powder and flour. Stir constantly and cook for 2 minutes over medium-low heat.
3. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Simmer for several minutes until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs

1. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the gravy and simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the flavors of the gravy.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped thyme before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: Tender meatballs in a rich, flavorful gravy make for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and requires common ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Perfectly Paired with Sides: The savory gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

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Tips

• Chill the Meatballs: Refrigerating the meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape while browning.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Browning the meatballs in batches ensures they cook evenly and get a nice sear.
• Thicken the Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, simmer it a little longer to thicken. If it’s too thick, add a splash of beef broth to adjust the consistency.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Ground Meat: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
• Add Vegetables: You can incorporate carrots or bell peppers into the gravy for more texture and flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

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.

Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, after browning the meatballs, you can transfer them and the gravy ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Perfect Pairings: Serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
• Make it a Meal: Add a green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
• Leftovers: Use leftover meatballs and gravy as a filling for sandwiches or to top a baked potato for a quick lunch.