These melt-in-your-mouth Meatballs And Gravy are the ultimate comfort food.
There are so many ways to eat meatballs. While this recipe is a pretty simple version of the rustic dish, different versions of meatballs and gravy exist all around the world — from Norway to Iran and beyond. Each version has its own flavor profile, name, sides, and garnishes, but one thing remains the same across the board: Meatballs are as easy to make as they are delicious to eat!
My take on the classic format involves tender meatballs drenched in an onion-infused pan sauce. It could be the perfect way to bring your hungry family members together on a cold evening. Best of all? The flavors mingle and meld and continue to get even better the longer they sit. This means these meatballs are even better when you make them ahead of time. In other words, this recipe is a testament that good food is worth the wait.
Are Meatballs And Gravy Healthy?
These meatballs wouldn’t be considered a health food. The breadcrumbs and flour can contribute to a high carb count, while the ground beef and butter both contain saturated fat. But who’s to say you can’t enjoy them every once in a while?
If you’re looking for something a little less rich, you can switch certain ingredients for more agreeable options. As always, I recommend using local organic meat and dairy whenever possible, which do tend to boast higher nutritional profiles. Additionally, it’s easy to get gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs from the store if you’re avoiding wheat. And if you’re seeking a leaner alternative to beef, you can try ground turkey. Just note that the lower fat content in ground poultry makes it a lot easier for the meatballs to dry out and become tough.
My Secret To Firm (But Tender) Meatballs
First, coat your hands in olive oil and massage the ground beef before mixing in all the other meatball ingredients. Doing this tenderizes the beef nicely because the heat from your hands will help release proteins in the meat. There’s no need to overmix; just a few minutes is perfect.
Between you and me, this is also how my great-grandma would infuse her meatballs with the utmost love and care. You can really taste the difference!
How To Make Ahead And Store
These meatballs can be fully made and stored in a fridge-safe container for up to a week. In a freezer, they will last 2 months. Just make sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat them, pop them in an oiled glass dish in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes, or until sizzling.
Serving Suggestions
Gravy-doused meatballs go great over Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes or Brown Rice Pilaf. Both starchy options soak up the onion sauce and create a beautiful base.
More uniquely (but equally nourishing), I recommend pairing your meatballs with a side of The Best Quinoa Salad You’ll Ever Try. It’s a great healthy option with fresh, vibrant veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the sliced onion until translucent.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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