Meatballs in Gravy

Introduction

Meatballs in Gravy is a comforting and satisfying dish featuring tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a rich and flavorful brown gravy. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a hearty meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is simple to make, packed with classic flavors, and easily customizable. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for a special occasion, these meatballs in gravy are sure to be a hit.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Large skillet or Dutch oven
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Baking sheet (optional)

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. (Alternatively, you can bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.)

Make the Gravy:

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
2. Gradually add beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and thyme.
4. Let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Serving:

• Serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for extra flavor.

Tips for the Best Meatballs in Gravy

• Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
• If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to thin it out.

Variations & Extra Flavor

Cheesy Meatballs: Add shredded Parmesan to the meatball mixture.

Mushroom Gravy: Sauté mushrooms in the butter before adding flour.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is packed with protein from the meatballs and provides essential nutrients from the beef broth. Serve with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare and store the meatballs and gravy separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Can I freeze meatballs in gravy? Yes! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy this easy and delicious Meatballs in Gravy recipe! It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!.