Easy Comforting Meatballs & Gravy Recipe
Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
Savor the warmth of home with these Easy Comforting Meatballs & Gravy. Tender meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy make for a simple yet satisfying dinner option.
Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes or noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite that brings smiles all around.
A Cozy Family Favorite
There's something truly special about a homemade meal that brings the family together. This Easy Comforting Meatballs & Gravy recipe has been a beloved staple in many households. It not only offers a hearty and satisfying dish but also evokes memories of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. The rich, savory gravy pairs perfectly with the tender meatballs, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
The simplicity of this recipe allows even novice cooks to create a delicious meal that will impress everyone at the table. With easily accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this comfort food classic in no time. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside, reminding you that sometimes the best evenings are spent around the dinner table with family and friends.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Not only is this meatballs and gravy recipe easy to prepare, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can double or triple the recipe, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade meals throughout the week. Cooked meatballs freeze beautifully, so you can store them for future meals when time is short. Simply reheat them with the gravy for a quick and satisfying dinner, saving you both time and effort while still enjoying a home-cooked meal.
Meal prepping with this recipe also helps in managing portion sizes, making it easier to eat healthy. Pair these meatballs with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. Instead of reaching for takeout, you can savor the wholesome ingredients of your homemade meatballs whenever you need a convenient option.
Customization Options
One of the beauties of this meatballs and gravy recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors by adding your favorite herbs and spices. For instance, if you're a fan of a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or the gravy. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative, making this dish suitable for various dietary preferences.
Additionally, different sauces can transform the gravy from classic to adventurous. Try incorporating different types of broth or even a splash of red wine to add depth and complexity to the flavors. With a few simple tweaks, you can make this dish uniquely yours, keeping dinnertime exciting and enjoyable.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients for a wholesome meal.
Instructions
Instructions
Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
Brown the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Gravy
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Combine and Simmer
Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the gravy has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with mashed potatoes or noodles.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Easy Comforting Meatballs & Gravy to perfection, consider serving it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. These sides not only soak up the savory gravy but also complement the meatballs beautifully. For a lighter option, fresh bread or crusty rolls can be the perfect accompaniment, allowing you to enjoy every drop of that delightful gravy.
If you're looking to round out your meal, steamed green beans or a simple side salad can add a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. The combination of textures and tastes will leave everyone at the table satisfied and eager for seconds.
Storage Tips
For optimal freshness, store leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days, making them perfect for next-day lunches. If you wish to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the meatballs and gravy separately. When stored properly, they can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When reheating, allow the meatballs to come to room temperature before warming them on the stove or microwave. Be sure to gently reheat the gravy to avoid curdling. A few splashes of broth or water can help restore its silky consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
This Easy Comforting Meatballs & Gravy recipe not only satisfies your comfort food cravings but also packs a nutritional punch. Lean ground beef provides a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese contributes carbohydrates to fuel your body, while garlic adds flavor along with potential health benefits such as improved immunity.
Additionally, the onions used in the gravy offer antioxidants and support heart health. By making this dish at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier option than store-bought alternatives. Plus, serving with vegetables or whole grains can enhance its nutritional profile even further.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option.
→ How can I make the gravy thicker?
You can add more flour or let it simmer longer to thicken.
Easy Comforting Meatballs & Gravy Recipe
Savor the warmth of home with these Easy Comforting Meatballs & Gravy. Tender meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy make for a simple yet satisfying dinner option.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the gravy has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g