Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy is a comforting dish that brings both nostalgia and satisfaction to the table. Picture sink-your-teeth-in meatballs, perfectly seasoned and smothered in a savory gravy. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is the kind that brightens any occasion. For me, it symbolizes warmth and love, capturing the spirit of home-cooked meals that anyone can make, regardless of cooking skills.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are plenty of reasons to whip up Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy, but what truly sets this dish apart is its simplicity and heartiness. It’s an affordable, crowd-pleasing option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have a satisfying meal on your table in about an hour.

"I made these meatballs for a family dinner last week, and they were a hit! The flavors are so rich and savory, plus they’re super easy to make!"

This recipe is also versatile enough to feed kids and adults alike, making it a great option for different gatherings or even a casual Sunday meal. With just a handful of ingredients, you can elevate your dining experience without breaking the bank.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Prepare for an easy yet fulfilling cooking adventure. The process is straightforward: mix, bake, sauté, and then serve! Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll be doing:

Mix all the meatball ingredients.
Bake the meatballs until golden brown.
Create the gravy by sautéing onions and adding seasonings.
Serve the meatballs swimming in that delicious sauce.

Now that you know the flow, let’s dive into the details.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef – Choose a leaner cut for a healthier option.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs – They help hold the meatballs together and add texture.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that rich umami flavor.
1/4 cup chopped parsley – A fresh herb to brighten up your dish.
1 egg – Acts as a binding agent for the meatballs.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a fragrant kick.
Salt and pepper – Don’t forget to season for maximum flavor.
1 cup beef broth – The base for your gravy.
1 cup onion, finely chopped – Sweetens your gravy.
2 tablespoons flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – For that extra depth of flavor.

Keep in mind, you can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for added crunch.

Step-by-Step Directions

Let’s make this dream dish a reality! Follow these simple steps:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well mixed.
Form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet.
Bake them for 20-25 minutes or until they are fully cooked.
While the meatballs are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onions until they become translucent.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk together, cooking for about a minute.
Gradually add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
Serve your delightful meatballs with the gravy drizzled generously on top.

Tips for Serving

To elevate your meal, consider serving these meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. Pair with steamed veggies or a light salad for balance. For a rustic touch, serve them with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy. You might even consider a side of buttery corn or roasted Brussels sprouts for a colorful plate.

Keeping Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Fresh Longer

Storing leftovers is a breeze. Keep any uneaten meatballs and gravy together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for about three months. Always remember to reheat them thoroughly before serving!

Pro Chef Tips

For juicier meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat when preparing. Just combine the ingredients until mixed.
Choose a mix of beef and pork for added flavor if you want to experiment.
Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure even cooking.
Experiment with herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get adventurous with your meatballs! Consider adding chopped spinach or shredded carrots for a veggie boost. Want some heat? A dash of red pepper flakes in the mixture will spice things up nicely. You can also try using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy?

The total time for this recipe is about 60 minutes, including preparation, baking, and cooking the gravy.

What can I use as a substitute for breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers, panko, or even finely ground oats work well as alternatives.

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can save you time on busy days!

This Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy recipe is definitely one to add to your kitchen repertoire. You’ll enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures every time. Happy cooking!

Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy

Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Description

A comforting dish featuring perfectly seasoned ground beef meatballs smothered in savory gravy, perfect for warm family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup beef broth
1 cup onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.
While the meatballs are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onions until they are translucent.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk together, cooking for about a minute.
Gradually add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
Serve the meatballs with the gravy drizzled generously on top.

Notes

For a healthier option, choose a leaner cut of ground beef. Experiment with different herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning for added flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: meatballs, gravy, comfort food, easy recipes, family meals