why make this recipe
Meatballs and gravy is a cozy, comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s a classic recipe that brings everyone together around the table. The savory meatballs, cooked to perfection, combined with a rich and flavorful gravy, create a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that allows you to customize to your taste.
how to make Meatballs and Gravy
Ingredients :
- 1 ½ lbs. Ground Beef (85% lean)
- 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- ½ Yellow Onion (finely diced)
- ¼ cup Breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 large Egg
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- Cornstarch for thickening
- 1 Tablespoon Ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Yellow Mustard
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Pepper
- 2 teaspoons Fresh Parsley (roughly chopped)
- 1 medium Yellow Onion (sliced into ½ inch strings)
- 1 Tablespoon Unsalted Butter
- 1 Beef Bouillon Cube (or 1 tsp Better than Bouillon)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2-3 drops Kitchen Bouquet browning and seasoning sauce (optional)
- ¼ cup cold water
Directions :
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, olive oil, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix everything until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the sliced onions until they are translucent.
- Next, add the chicken broth, beef broth, bouillon cube, onion powder, garlic powder, and any optional browning sauce to the skillet.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stir it into the gravy in the skillet until it thickens.
- Finally, return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for about 15 minutes.
how to serve Meatballs and Gravy
Serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a complete meal. You can also garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color. This dish pairs nicely with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the meatballs.
how to store Meatballs and Gravy
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the gravy thickens as it sits, you can add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up again.
tips to make Meatballs and Gravy
- For added flavor, consider using Italian seasoning or your favorite herbs in the meatball mixture.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when browning the meatballs; this helps them cook evenly.
- If you want the meatballs to be extra tender, try soaking the breadcrumbs in milk before mixing them into the meat.
variation
You can switch up the meat by using ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables to the gravy, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze Meatballs and Gravy?
A: Yes, you can freeze the meatballs and gravy. Just make sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: How can I make the meatballs healthier?
A: You can use leaner ground meat, like ground turkey or chicken, and substitute breadcrumbs with oats or whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option.
Q: What can I serve with Meatballs and Gravy?
A: Meatballs and gravy are delicious served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also enjoy them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese.
