The warmth of a homestyle dinner envelops you as soon as those savory meatballs hit the skillet. I remember making this Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy for the first winter gathering at my home, and the way my friends' eyes lit up at the first bite was priceless. The rich, aromatic gravy wraps around each tender meatball, turning a simple dinner into a memory you’ll crave time and time again.
Don’t let its comforting flavors fool you! This dish is surprisingly quick to whip up, taking just 40 minutes from prep to plate. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend feast, these meatballs are easy enough for novice cooks yet impressive enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients, it’s a great way to elevate ground beef from ordinary to extraordinary without breaking a sweat.
Join me as we dive into the recipe that redefines homemade goodness, transforming your kitchen into a haven of flavorful nostalgia!
Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy
- This Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy recipe is not only a breeze to prepare but also packs a delicious punch that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
- The rich, savory gravy enhances the flavor of the tender meatballs, making every bite a delight.
- With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can easily impress your guests or family without spending hours in the kitchen.
- This dish is versatile enough to pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta, offering a comforting meal option for any occasion.
Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting classic!
For the Meatballs
• Ground beef (80/20) – contributes rich flavor and juiciness to your meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian) – help bind the meatballs while adding texture.
• Large egg – acts as a binder to maintain the meatballs’ shape.
• Small onion, diced – adds sweetness and aroma to the mixture.
• Garlic, minced – brings an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing out the savory profile of the dish.
For the Gravy
• Beef broth (low-sodium) – provides a base for the gravy, enhancing the richness of Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy.
• Worcestershire sauce – adds depth and umami to your delicious gravy.
• Cornstarch mixed with water – thickens the gravy for that perfect sauce consistency.
• Olive oil – used for browning the meatballs and adding a bit of healthy fat.
How to Make Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until just combined for a tender meatball texture.
-
Shape Meatballs: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly and makes for easy cleanup later!
-
Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for about 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Set them aside on a plate.
-
Make Gravy: In the same skillet, add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce while scraping up any browned bits from the pan. This adds incredible flavor to your gravy!
-
Thicken Gravy: Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the gravy. Allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently until it reaches a nice, rich consistency.
-
Simmer Together: Return the meatballs to the skillet, letting them simmer in the savory gravy for another 10 minutes. This allows the meatballs to soak up all that delicious flavor!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy
Fridge: Store leftover Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Divide them into meal-sized portions for convenience.
Reheating: Reheat the meatballs and gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of beef broth can help revive the gravy’s consistency.
Thawing: Always thaw frozen meatballs in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting in your microwave before reheating for best results.
Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on this beloved classic!
-
Turkey Substitute: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
Give it a try; you'll be surprised how tender and juicy they still turn out! -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Your family won’t even notice the difference! -
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture for an exciting heat boost.
This lively twist will awaken your taste buds! -
Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano into the meat mixture to elevate the flavor profile.
It’s amazing how a little freshness can transform the whole dish! -
Creamy Gravy: Substitute half the beef broth with heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce that adds a decadent touch.
Indulge in the luxurious flavor that awaits! -
Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and finely chopped veggies for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
This option is satisfying and bursting with flavor! -
Cheesy Surprise: Add grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese to the meat mixture for an ooey-gooey update.
Each bite will be a delightful surprise filled with cheesy goodness! -
BBQ Twist: Use barbecue sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce for a smoky, sweet twist that’ll bring summer vibes to your dinner table.
You’ll love the nostalgic taste of backyard barbecues!
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper as usual, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even greater convenience, shape the meatballs and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply brown the meatballs and follow the gravy instructions, allowing them to simmer together as directed. This not only saves valuable time on busy weeknights but ensures your homemade meal is just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy?
Create a delightful dining experience by pairing your meal with these tempting sides and flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes soak up the rich gravy beautifully, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that all will adore.
- Buttery Garlic Bread: Golden and inviting, every bite offers a perfect crunch and buttery richness to balance the savory meatballs.
- Steamed Green Beans: Crisp and fresh, these bright green beans add a lovely contrast in both flavor and texture to your plate.
- Spinach Salad: A refreshing mix of peppery arugula and sweet cherry tomatoes pairs wonderfully with the hearty meatballs, providing a fresh burst on each forkful.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, caramelized and slightly sweet, introduce a smoky flavor that complements the gravy’s richness delightfully.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw brings a welcome zest to the meal, making each bite a whirlwind of flavors.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine enhances the dish's robust flavors beautifully, making for a sophisticated pairing.
- Apple Pie: End on a sweet note! A slice of warm apple pie offers a comforting conclusion with its warm spices, tying together the homestyle meal perfectly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy, be sure to mix the ingredients gently to avoid tough meatballs; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- It's essential to properly measure and pack your breadcrumbs, as too much can dry out the meatballs while too little may cause them to fall apart.
- To achieve an even browning on the meatballs, make sure your olive oil is hot enough before adding them to the skillet, as this will help create a delicious crust.
- When simmering the meatballs in the gravy, keeping the heat on low will allow the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking the meatballs.
Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ground beef is fresh?
Absolutely! Look for ground beef that is bright red in color with a firm texture. Avoid any packages that have dark spots or an off smell, as these can indicate spoilage. If you're picking it up from the butcher, don’t hesitate to ask when it was freshly ground.
What’s the best way to store leftover Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy?
Very simple! Transfer your leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing the container to maintain their quality.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy? What’s the best method?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely, then transfer them into a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. For easy meal prep, consider portioning them out into single-serving bags!
What’s the best way to reheat meatballs and gravy without drying them out?
I often recommend reheating them on the stovetop! Simply place the meatballs and gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the gravy appears thick, just add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out for that silky smooth texture.
Are there any substitutions for allergies or dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a binder. For a dairy-free option, ensure that any sauces you choose, like Worcestershire, are free of any hidden dairy. And for those with egg allergies, ground flaxseed mixed with water can act as a great egg replacement!
What if my meatballs are falling apart while cooking?
Don't worry! If you find your meatballs crumbling, it could be due to either too much moisture or not enough binding. Make sure to pack the breadcrumbs well and don't skimp on the egg. If they still fall apart, you could add a bit more breadcrumbs or a touch of grated cheese to help keep them intact. Happy cooking!
Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for about 5 minutes on each side.
- In the same skillet, add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits for flavor.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the gravy and simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for another 10 minutes.
Leave a Reply