Meatballs and Gravy: Easy Recipe

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Meatballs and gravy is the epitome of comfort food. When paired with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that warms both the heart and the stomach. This savory dish is not only delicious but incredibly versatile, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight meal or making it ahead for busy days, this meatballs and gravy recipe is a winner. The best part? You can make it in advance and freeze it for later, which adds to the ease and convenience of this timeless dish.

Meatballs and Gravy served with mashed potatoes

Why Meatballs and Gravy is a Must-Try Dish

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a hearty plate of meatballs drenched in rich, flavorful gravy. This recipe is a combination of tender, juicy meatballs and a savory brown gravy made with a blend of chicken and beef broth. It’s ideal for those who crave a satisfying, filling meal that’s both quick and simple to prepare. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and frozen for later. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making dinner for your family, this meatballs and gravy recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients for Meatballs and Gravy

The ingredients for this dish are simple, yet they create layers of flavor that make every bite irresistible.

For the Meatballs:

Ground Beef: Provides the rich, hearty flavor of the meatballs.
Yellow Onion: Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the meatballs.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together and gives them a tender texture.
Garlic: Enhances the savory profile of the meatballs.
Egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold everything together.
Ketchup and Mustard: These ingredients bring a slight tanginess and depth to the flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and richness to the meatballs.
Salt & Pepper: Seasonings to elevate the flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Brings a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

For the Gravy:

Yellow Onion: Cooked until caramelized for a deep, savory base.
Butter: Used to sauté the onions and create a silky, rich texture in the gravy.
Chicken & Beef Broth: The backbone of the gravy, offering depth and savory richness.
Beef Bouillon: Adds a concentrated beef flavor to enhance the broth.
Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Elevates the flavor profile of the gravy.
Worcestershire Sauce: Gives the gravy an extra layer of savory goodness.
Cornstarch & Water: To thicken the gravy to the perfect consistency.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to swap out some ingredients for dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are some alternatives:

Ground Beef: If you prefer a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken.
Breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free version, you can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or almond flour.
Butter: For a dairy-free alternative, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Chicken and Beef Broth: For a vegetarian version, swap these out with vegetable broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Meatballs and Gravy

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture to ensure tender meatballs.
Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs. Refrigerate the meatballs for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for 2 minutes on each side, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
Caramelize the Onions: In the same skillet, melt butter and add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes, until the onions are softened and caramelized.
Make the Gravy: Add the chicken broth, beef broth, beef bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil.
Thicken the Gravy: In a small container, mix cornstarch and cold water. Slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the boiling gravy. Continue to simmer until the gravy thickens.
Cook the Meatballs in the Gravy: Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet, spooning gravy over them. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld together.
Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley and serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes for the perfect meal.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Meatballs and Gravy

Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the meatball ingredients, avoid overworking the mixture. This will prevent the meatballs from becoming tough.
Chill the Meatballs: Refrigerate the meatballs for 15 minutes after rolling them. This step helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Brown the Meatballs in Batches: Searing the meatballs creates a nice outer texture and prevents overcrowding in the pan, ensuring even cooking.
Use a Nonstick Skillet: A nonstick skillet will prevent the meatballs from sticking and make flipping them easier.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Meatballs and gravy is delicious on its own, but pairing it with other sides can elevate the meal even further.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic side to serve with meatballs and gravy. The rich gravy complements the smooth texture of the potatoes perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or green beans add a crunchy, slightly sweet contrast to the richness of the meatballs.
Rice or Pasta: For a different take, serve the meatballs and gravy over rice or pasta for a comforting meal.
Make-Ahead Tip: The meatballs and gravy can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months.

A Hearty and Comforting Meal

Meatballs and gravy is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, with options to adapt it to your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal in advance for later, this dish will never disappoint. Serve it with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Conclusion: A Comforting, Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

Meatballs and gravy is truly the epitome of comfort food. This dish offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a make-ahead option, or a dish to impress guests, meatballs and gravy is a versatile recipe that delivers on both taste and convenience. The rich, flavorful gravy combined with the tender meatballs served over mashed potatoes or rice makes for a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Now that you’ve mastered this comforting classic, feel free to get creative with sides or make it your own with different variations. It’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make meatballs and gravy ahead of time?

Yes! You can easily make the meatballs and gravy ahead of time. Prepare the meatballs and cook them in the gravy as instructed. Once done, allow the dish to cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do I keep my meatballs tender?

To ensure your meatballs stay tender, avoid overmixing the meat when forming the meatballs. Overworking the meat can lead to tough meatballs. Additionally, chilling the meatballs for 15 minutes before cooking helps them hold together and prevents them from falling apart during cooking.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef. While the flavor will differ slightly, the recipe works well with both options. Be mindful of not overcooking the meatballs as turkey or chicken can dry out more quickly than beef.

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