Meatballs with Gravy

Meatballs with Gravy: A Heartwarming Classic

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of Meatballs with Gravy wafting through the kitchen, wrapping you in its warm embrace. This classic dish transcends generations, evoking nostalgic memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs seamlessly coated in a rich, luscious gravy that makes every bite a celebration of flavor. Not only is this recipe a surefire hit for the young and the young at heart, but it also comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

In just 30 minutes, you can have a plateful of savory goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a soft bun, Meatballs with Gravy is a dish worth making again and again.

Craving Comfort Food?

Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about that one hearty meal that instantly lifts your spirits? You know the one I mean—the meal that brings back fond memories of home-cooked goodness. Meatballs with Gravy isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience steeped in nostalgia and warmth. A plate filled with these juicy meatballs drenched in rich, tantalizing gravy is enough to spark joy and ignite cravings. So, what are you waiting for? Are you ready to bring the warmth of this beloved classic into your kitchen?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s dive into why this Meatballs with Gravy recipe will capture your heart and satisfy your cravings:

• Easy Prep: This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick meal.

• Kid-Friendly: Meatballs are universally adored by children, making them the perfect meal for family dinners.

• Minimal Ingredients: With a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a delightful dinner without breaking the bank.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner with friends, this dish is always a hit.

• Indulgent Comfort: Rich, savory flavors combined with tender meatballs will have everyone going back for another helping.

Ingredients

Ground Beef (80/20)

Starting with high-quality ground beef ensures that your meatballs are juicy and flavorful. The perfect fat ratio enhances the mouthfeel and helps the meatballs retain moisture as they cook.

Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs provide that delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the insides tender. They soak up the flavors without making the meatballs dense.

Egg

An egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring your meatballs don’t fall apart but have the right texture that is both soft and compact.

Worcestershire Sauce

A splash of this umami-packed sauce elevates the flavor profile, adding depth and richness that transform ordinary meatballs into something magical.

Ketchup

Sweetness from ketchup balances out the savory notes, bringing out the best in the other ingredients while giving the meatballs their signature glaze.

Mustard

Mustard adds a hint of tanginess that wakes up the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the meatballs.

Onion Powder

Onion powder infuses an aromatic essence into the meatballs, making each bite flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients.

Seasoned Salt

This mix of sea salt with additional spices amplifies the overall seasoning, ensuring your meatballs are well-balanced and full of flavor.

Butter

Butter is essential for cooking the onions until they are caramelized, contributing a rich, buttery taste that makes the gravy divine.

Onion

Sliced onions become sweet and delicious when caramelized, creating the perfect base for the gravy.

Flour or Cornstarch

This thickening agent gives the gravy that velvety texture you crave, ensuring it clings lovingly to your meatballs.

Beef Broth

The foundation of your gravy, beef broth brings savory depth and a satisfying richness that enhances the overall dish.

Timing

This Meatballs with Gravy recipe is a delightful blend of fast indulgence and comforting tradition. In only 30 minutes, you can prepare a feast that feels both luxurious and homely. When you’re pressed for time yet craving comfort food, this dish is the perfect solution. However, if you’re in the mood for a more leisurely meal, feel free to let the meatballs simmer in the gravy a bit longer for even deeper flavors. The choice is yours!

Step-by-Step

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, onion powder, and seasoned salt. Mix with your hands until just combined.

2. Form Meatballs: Roll this savory mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, ensuring they are compact yet tender.

3. Sear the Meatballs: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the meatballs until they are beautifully browned on all sides, creating a delectable crust.

4. Caramelize Onions: Take the meatballs out of the skillet. In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook until caramelized and golden brown, releasing their sweet aroma.

5. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle flour over the onions, stirring until a paste forms. Gradually whisk in beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoned salt. Simmer until thickened, creating a luscious, gooey gravy.

6. Combine: Return the beautifully browned meatballs to the skillet, covering them lovingly with the gravy. Simmer for another 10-12 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the rich flavors.

Nutritional Information

This scrumptious Meatballs with Gravy recipe is a comfort food delight. While exact nutritional values can vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients, a typical serving-size meatball (approximately 2 meatballs with gravy) clocks in at around 300 calories.

Of course, it’s essential to remember that this indulgent dish can be part of a balanced diet. Enjoying comfort food in moderation can elevate your dining experience without compromising your health goals.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten up your Meatballs with Gravy without sacrificing flavor? Here are some smart swaps:

• Lean Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a healthier alternative with lower fat content.

• Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: Opt for whole wheat panko breadcrumbs for extra fiber without compromising texture.

• Homemade Gravy: Make your gravy with whole wheat flour or cornstarch and low-sodium beef broth for a healthier version.

• Reduced-Sugar Ketchup: Choose a low-sugar or no-added-sugar ketchup to cut down on sweetness and calories.

• Dairy-Free Options: Replace butter with coconut oil and ensure your beef broth is dairy-free for a completely dairy-free meal.

Serving Suggestions

Meatballs with Gravy can be a versatile dinner option.

• Over Mashed Potatoes: The classic pairing allows the gravy to soak into fluffy mashed potatoes, making every bite heavenly.

• On a Roll: Serve them in sub rolls for delectable meatball sandwiches, perfect for a casual dinner.

• With Rice: Ladle the gravy over a bed of white or brown rice for a comforting meal that fills the belly.

• For a Holiday Feast: Add these meatballs to your holiday spread, bringing everyone together and making it feel like a special occasion.

Common Mistakes

Don’t let these common pitfalls interfere with your culinary success!

• Overbaking Meatballs: Overcooked meatballs can turn into dry, tough bites. Watch your cooking time carefully to maintain their juiciness.

• Ingredient Proportions: Too much of anything, especially breadcrumbs or egg, can alter the texture. Always measure ingredients carefully for best results.

• Gravy Lumps: Stir well to avoid lumps in your gravy. If you see any, whisk them out as soon as you notice.

• Not Browning Enough: Searing the meatballs builds flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s key to achieving that delectable crust.

• Greasy Gravy: Avoid excess grease by opting for meat with an appropriate fat ratio, and remember to drain excess oil before adding gravy ingredients.

Storing Tips

If you find yourself with extras (if that’s even possible!), here are some tips for storing Meatballs with Gravy:

• Freezing Portions: Let the meatballs and gravy cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months!

• Reheating Instructions: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts until heated through.

Tempted to Make Meatballs with Gravy?

Don’t let the comforting allure of Meatballs with Gravy pass you by. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, a reminder of family gatherings and shared laughter. If you’re ready to indulge in a culinary embrace that will leave you and your loved ones smiling, gather your ingredients and start cooking. Your taste buds will thank you, and those nostalgic memories will come rushing back with every tender bite. Why wait? Dive into this classic recipe ASAP!

FAQs

1. Can I use ground pork instead of ground beef?
   Absolutely! You can substitute ground pork for a different flavor profile—just ensure the fat content is balanced.

2. Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
   Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats, and ensure your sauces are also gluten-free.

3. How do I make the gravy without flour?
   You can use cornstarch mixed with cold water as a thickening agent instead of flour for a gluten-free option.

4. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare and shape the meatballs, then refrigerate or freeze them before cooking.

5. What sides pair well with Meatballs with Gravy?
   Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread are perfect accompaniments to soak up that delicious gravy!

Whether feeding a hungry crowd or simply indulging yourself, Meatballs with Gravy promises a satisfying culinary experience that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. Enjoy!

Meatballs with Gravy

A classic comfort food dish featuring tender meatballs coated in rich, savory gravy, perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20) Ensure high-quality for juicy and flavorful meatballs.
• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Provides crunch on the outside.
• 1 Egg Acts as a binding agent.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Adds depth and richness.
• 1 tbsp Ketchup Balances savory notes.
• 1 tsp Mustard Adds a hint of tanginess.
• 1 tsp Onion Powder Infuses aromatic essence.
• 1 tsp Seasoned Salt Ensures well-balanced seasoning.

For the Gravy

• 2 tbsp Butter For caramelizing onions.
• 1 medium Onion Sliced and caramelized.
• 2 tbsp Flour or Cornstarch Used as a thickening agent.
• 2 cups Beef Broth Foundation of the gravy.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, onion powder, and seasoned salt. Mix with your hands until just combined.
2. Roll this savory mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, ensuring they are compact yet tender.

Cooking

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the meatballs until they are beautifully browned on all sides.
2. Take the meatballs out of the skillet. In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Sprinkle flour over the onions, stirring until a paste forms. Gradually whisk in beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoned salt. Simmer until thickened.
4. Return the meatballs to the skillet, covering them with the gravy. Simmer for another 10-12 minutes.

Notes

Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or in a roll. For healthier options, consider lean meat or homemade gravy alternatives.