Are you craving a comforting meal that satisfies both your hunger and your soul? Look no further than Meatballs and Gravy! This classic dish features juicy meatballs smothered in a rich and savory gravy, creating a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to a state of pure bliss with every bite. Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or fluffy rice, Meatballs and Gravy is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into the details of this comforting recipe and discover how to make it at home.
Ingredients:
Meatballs:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1/4 cup finely minced yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Italian or plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Meatball Gravy:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, quartered and cut into half-inch slices
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and garlic powder, and cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Thicken the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions in the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure there are no lumps. Cook the gravy until thickened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the gravy, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the meatballs are heated through and the gravy is thick and flavorful, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh thyme for a burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve the Meatballs and Gravy hot over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, and savor the comforting flavors of this classic dish.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Use Ground Turkey: For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in the meatballs.
- Add Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the meatballs by adding chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or oregano to the mixture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep a breeze on busy days!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying them? A: Yes, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
Q: Can I use pre-made frozen meatballs for this recipe? A: While homemade meatballs are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can certainly use pre-made frozen meatballs if you’re short on time. Just thaw them according to the package instructions before adding them to the gravy.
Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth for the gravy? A: Yes, you can use chicken broth as a substitute for beef broth if you prefer a lighter flavor. However, keep in mind that it will alter the overall taste of the gravy slightly.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? A: Absolutely! Meatballs and Gravy is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can modify the recipe:
- Replace Breadcrumbs: Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the breadcrumbs in the meatballs to keep them low-carb.
- Thicken with Xanthan Gum: Instead of using flour to thicken the gravy, you can use xanthan gum as a low-carb alternative. Start with a small amount and whisk it into the gravy until desired thickness is reached.
- Serve Over Cauliflower Mash: Instead of traditional mashed potatoes, serve the meatballs and gravy over creamy cauliflower mash for a keto-friendly option.
Meatballs and Gravy is a timeless dish that embodies the essence of comfort food with its juicy meatballs and rich, savory gravy. Whether enjoyed as a hearty weeknight dinner or as a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart. With its simple preparation and versatile ingredients, Meatballs and Gravy is a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the comforting flavors of this classic dish tonight!
Do you have any questions or suggestions about this recipe? Feel free to leave a comment below!
