Meatballs and Gravy

Tender meatballs and gravy are the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This comfort food features juicy beef meatballs smothered in rich brown gravy, making it an irresistible choice. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, and it also freezes well, ensuring you always have a delicious meal ready to go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Meatballs and gravy offer warm flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these meatballs in advance for busy nights without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a delightful twist.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything at hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the meatball ingredients evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the meatballs and making the gravy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accuracy in ingredient amounts for consistent results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To whip up these delightful meatballs and gravy, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:

For the Meatballs

• 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 ½ lbs. Ground Beef (85% lean)
• ½ Yellow Onion (finely diced)
• ¼ cup Breadcrumbs (Plain or Italian)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 large Egg
• 1 Tablespoon Ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Yellow Mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Pepper
• 2 teaspoons Fresh Parsley (roughly chopped)

For the Gravy

• 1 medium Yellow Onion (sliced into ½ inch strings)
• 1 Tablespoon Unsalted Butter
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 1 Beef Bouillon Cube (or 1 tsp Better than Bouillon)
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 2-3 drops Kitchen Bouquet browning and seasoning sauce (optional)
• ¼ cup cold water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch

How to Make Meatballs and Gravy

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground beef, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley.
2. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands:
1. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

In a skillet:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in chicken broth, beef broth, bouillon cube, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and Kitchen Bouquet if using. Bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy

In a small bowl:
1. Combine cold water with cornstarch until smooth.
2. Gradually pour this mixture into the simmering gravy while stirring continuously until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Meatballs with Gravy

Add baked meatballs to the skillet with gravy:
– Coat them well and let simmer together for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade meatballs and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite side!

How to Serve Meatballs and Gravy

Serving meatballs and gravy is all about enhancing the dish’s comforting flavors. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• This classic pairing features fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up the rich gravy, creating a satisfying bite.

With Buttered Egg Noodles

• Tender egg noodles tossed in butter provide a simple yet delicious base for the meatballs and gravy, offering a nice texture contrast.

On a Sub Roll

• Transform your meatballs into a hearty sandwich by placing them on a toasted sub roll, topped with extra gravy and cheese for added indulgence.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing meatballs with steamed broccoli or green beans adds freshness and color to your plate while keeping the meal balanced.

As Part of a Meatball Platter

• Serve meatballs alongside various dips and sides for an entertaining platter. Include breadsticks, olives, and cheeses for variety.

With Rice Pilaf

• A fragrant rice pilaf can complement the savory flavors of the meatballs and gravy, making it a perfect side dish for those who prefer grains over potatoes.

How to Perfect Meatballs and Gravy

Making perfect meatballs and gravy requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an irresistible dish.

• Use lean ground beef: Opt for 85% lean ground beef to ensure juicy meatballs without excess fat.
• Don’t skip the breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients together while adding texture, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.
• Season generously: Don’t hesitate to add extra spices or herbs to enhance flavor. Fresh parsley or additional onion powder can elevate your dish.
• Sear before simmering: Browning the meatballs in olive oil before adding them to the gravy develops a deeper flavor.
• Let it simmer: Allowing your gravy to simmer gently will blend all flavors together beautifully.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer thicker gravy, simply mix corn starch with cold water and stir it into the sauce until you achieve your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Meatballs and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with meatballs and gravy can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra gravy; slice a baguette, spread garlic butter, and toast until golden.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy outside and tender inside, these sprouts add a lovely crunch alongside your meal.
3. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with savory meatballs.
4. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, creamy cauliflower mash pairs beautifully with rich gravy.
5. Crispy Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds brightness to balance the richness of the main dish.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements savory flavors; bake until soft and serve with butter or cinnamon.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness that pairs nicely with hearty meat dishes.
8. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer a crispy texture that complements juicy meatballs perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Meatballs and Gravy, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong meat: Choosing a fatty or lean ground beef can alter the flavor and texture. Aim for 85% lean for balanced juiciness.
• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine ingredients gently until just mixed.
• Skipping browning: Not browning the meatballs before simmering in gravy can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always sear them first for added taste.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can result in bland meatballs. Ensure you follow the seasoning amounts closely and adjust to your taste.
• Using hot broth: Adding hot broth directly into the cold water and cornstarch mixture can cause lumps. Always mix cold first before combining.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Meatballs and Gravy

• Place in freezer-safe containers.
• Meatballs and gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Meatballs and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Meatballs and Gravy:

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will still provide delicious meatballs but with a lighter taste.

What can I serve with Meatballs and Gravy?

Meatballs and Gravy pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or over egg noodles for a comforting meal.

How do I make Meatballs and Gravy healthier?

To make it healthier, use leaner ground beef or turkey, add more vegetables to the gravy, or serve with whole-grain sides.

Can I prepare Meatballs and Gravy ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, then cook when ready.

What is the best way to thaw frozen Meatballs and Gravy?

Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results, then reheat as instructed above.

Final Thoughts

This Meatballs and Gravy recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding spices or herbs of your choice. Whether you enjoy it over mashed potatoes or noodles, it’s sure to become a family favorite!