Meatballs and Gravy

Tender meatballs and gravy are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This dish features juicy beef meatballs that are smothered in rich, flavorful gravy made with onions. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. Easy to make ahead and freezer-friendly, meatballs and gravy stands out as a hearty meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of savory meatballs and rich brown gravy creates a warm and inviting dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up in just an hour.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping! Cook once and enjoy multiple servings throughout the week.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta—great for customizing to your preference!
• Family Approved: A recipe that pleases even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking meatballs and gravy a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting your culinary adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan or Skillet
• Saucepan
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Frying Pan or Skillet: Ideal for browning the meatballs evenly for enhanced flavor.
• Saucepan: Used for preparing the delicious gravy that envelops your meatballs.

Ingredients

For these delicious meatballs and gravy, gather the following 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: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground beef, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley.
2. Mix until well combined; do not overmix.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

1. Roll the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

In a frying pan:
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Brown each side for about 4–5 minutes until cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

In the same pan:
1. Melt butter over medium heat; add sliced onions and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in chicken broth, beef broth, bouillon cube, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and Kitchen Bouquet sauce if using.
3. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

1. In a separate bowl, mix corn starch with cold water until smooth.
2. Gradually add this mixture into the simmering gravy while stirring continuously until it thickens.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs with Gravy

1. Return browned meatballs to the pan with gravy.
2. Simmer on low heat for an additional 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Now your delicious meatballs and gravy are ready to be served! Enjoy them over creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish for a truly comforting meal.

How to Serve Meatballs and Gravy

Serving meatballs and gravy is all about enhancing the comfort food experience. Here are some delicious ideas to elevate your meal.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for the rich gravy, soaking up all the flavors.

With Egg Noodles

• Tender egg noodles tossed with gravy make a delightful pairing that complements the meatballs nicely.

On a Sub Roll

• For a fun twist, serve meatballs and gravy in a soft sub roll for a hearty sandwich option.

With Steamed Vegetables

• A side of steamed green beans or broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the dish.

In a Casserole

• Layer meatballs and gravy with rice or pasta in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a satisfying casserole.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small meatballs on toothpicks with gravy on the side for dipping at gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Meatballs and Gravy

Creating perfect meatballs and gravy takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for 85% lean beef keeps your meatballs moist while reducing excess fat.
• Don’t overmix: Mix your ingredients just until combined to keep meatballs tender rather than tough.
• Chill before cooking: Refrigerating the formed meatballs for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Thicken wisely: For a thicker gravy, gradually whisk in cornstarch mixed with cold water until you reach desired consistency.
• Garnish generously: Finish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and an inviting presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Meatballs and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with meatballs and gravy can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfectly toasted garlic bread serves as a great vehicle for soaking up extra gravy.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy contrast that complements the softness of the meatballs.
3. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the rich flavors of the dish.
4. Rice Pilaf
   Lightly seasoned rice pilaf absorbs sauce well, making it an excellent choice alongside meatballs.
5. Cauliflower Mash
   A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy and pairs beautifully with gravy.
6. Side Salad
   A simple green salad dressed lightly will add brightness to your plate without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making meatballs and gravy, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using old or stale ingredients can compromise flavor. Always choose fresh herbs and spices for the best taste.
• Overmixing the Meat Mixture: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined to keep them tender and juicy.
• Skipping Browning the Meatballs: Skipping this step can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Brown the meatballs in olive oil before adding them to the gravy.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned meatballs can taste bland. Be sure to season every component, including the gravy, for a well-rounded flavor.
• Using Too Much Liquid in Gravy: Adding excess liquid can dilute the flavor. Start with less broth and adjust as needed for your desired consistency.
• Not Allowing Enough Cooking Time: Rushing the cooking process can leave the meatballs undercooked. Follow the recommended cooking time for safety and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Meatballs and gravy will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Meatballs and Gravy

• Place cooled meatballs and gravy into freezer-safe containers.
• They 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 loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through; add a splash of broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making meatballs and gravy:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will provide a lighter option while still being flavorful.

What should I serve with meatballs and gravy?

Meatballs and gravy pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a hearty meal.

How long do I cook meatballs in gravy?

Cook the meatballs in gravy for about 30 minutes on simmer after browning them, ensuring they are cooked through.

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare meatballs in advance and store them uncooked or cooked in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to use them.

What’s the best way to thicken my gravy?

If your gravy is too thin, mix cold water with cornstarch until smooth then stir it into your simmering gravy until thickened.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for meatballs and gravy is not only comforting but also versatile enough to customize based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to make it your own. Enjoy this classic dish that brings warmth to any table!