There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich aroma of ground beef meatballs simmering away in a savory gravy. On one chilly evening, after a long day filled with endless errands, I found myself drawn to this simple yet satisfying dish; a reminder that home-cooked meals can really transform the atmosphere of a dull weekday.
After some quick prep, I discovered how easy it is to whip up a batch of meatballs that are not only bursting with flavor but are also incredibly satisfying. This recipe for Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect solution for those nights when takeout feels a little too ordinary. Plus, the versatility of these meatballs makes them suitable for a cozy dinner over mashed potatoes or a comforting bowl of noodles.
Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling nostalgic for homemade goodness!
Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without all the fuss.
- The rich flavors of the meatballs combined with the savory gravy will have everyone at the table smiling with satisfaction.
- Versatile enough to serve over mashed potatoes or noodles, this dish adapts to any dinner preference you have.
- Visually appealing, the meatballs glistening in the flavorful gravy create a warm and inviting presentation that will impress your guests.
Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Ingredients
Get ready to create a comforting classic!
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb lean ground beef – Use lean beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs – Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them moist.
- 1 large egg – The egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring your meatballs stay together.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Chopped onion adds a flavorful depth to the meatballs.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aroma and taste that brighten up the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season your mixture to elevate the overall flavor!
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoon olive oil – Olive oil is great for browning the meatballs and adds a rich taste.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth – Low-sodium broth keeps the dish savory without overwhelming saltiness.
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce – Soy sauce enhances the umami flavor, perfectly complementing the meatballs.
With these Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy ingredients, you’re all set to whip up a delicious meal that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite!
How to Make Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Aim for a uniform mixture and then form it into golf ball-sized meatballs.
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Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step will lock in those rich flavors, so set them aside once golden.
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Make the Roux: Return to the same skillet and add a sprinkle of flour to create a roux. Stir constantly, cooking for about 1 minute until it turns a lovely golden shade—this is where the magic starts!
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Whisk in Broth: Gradually whisk in the low-sodium beef broth and soy sauce. As you do, scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan to infuse them into the gravy.
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Simmer Meatballs: Gently return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let them simmer in the gravy for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.
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Serve: Serve your delicious Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy hot over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or noodles for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy
Room Temperature: Store leftover meatballs and gravy at room temperature for up to 2 hours before transferring to the fridge for proper storage.
Fridge: Refrigerate your Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze meatballs (without gravy) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating with gravy.
Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat the thawed meatballs in a saucepan with a splash of beef broth to keep them moist, ensuring delicious flavor in every bite!
Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this comforting dish to suit your tastes!
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Turkey Meatballs: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner alternative that still retains great flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch for the roux to enjoy this dish without gluten difficulties.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture for an aromatic boost that will awaken your taste buds.
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Spicy Twist: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that elevates the richness of the gravy.
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms, combined with a plant-based binder, for a hearty vegetarian take.
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Barbecue Glaze: Instead of soy sauce, use your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy twist that’s perfect over rice!
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Creamy Gravy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream towards the end of cooking for an ultra-rich and creamy gravy experience.
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Zesty Citrus: A touch of lemon or lime juice can brighten the flavors of the gravy, giving it a fresh and zesty lift!
Explore these variations to personalize your Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy, creating a unique dish perfect for any occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper, then form them into balls. Place the uncooked meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate. The gravy can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just skip adding the meatballs until you're ready to serve to maintain their texture. When ready to enjoy, brown the meatballs and simmer them in the reheated gravy for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. These make-ahead tips not only save time on busy nights but ensure your family enjoys a comforting homemade meal!
What to Serve with Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy?
When it comes to creating a complete meal, the right sides can elevate your delightful meatballs into an unforgettable feast.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes beautifully absorbs the savory gravy, creating a comforting bite in every forkful. They bring a classic warmth that pairs well with meatballs.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to your plate, cutting through the richness of the gravy. Their bright flavor complements the heartiness of the dish perfectly.
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Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is a delicious way to soak up the flavorful gravy. The fragrant garlic and fresh herbs make for a complementary combination that everyone loves.
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Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing and crunchy romaine lettuce make for a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs, adding texture and a lightness that balances the meal beautifully.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots not only add sweetness but also a beautiful color contrast to your plate. Their earthy flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the gravy.
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Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine brings out the meaty flavors while adding a hint of sophistication to your meal. Its rich taste complements the heartiness of the ground beef.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, a warm slice of apple pie provides a delightful sweet ending. The spices and buttery crust create a comforting finale after a flavorful meal.
With these pairings, your Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy will shine even brighter on the dinner table.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy, make sure not to overmix the meatball ingredients, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Instead of using all-purpose flour for the roux, consider gluten-free alternatives like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend if you have dietary restrictions.
- To ensure even cooking, brown the meatballs in batches instead of crowding the skillet, which can lead to steaming rather than browning.
- Always check the internal temperature of your meatballs, which should reach at least 160°F for safe consumption.
Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for meatballs?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef for meatballs, aim for lean ground beef with about 80-85% lean meat to fat ratio. This provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness without excessive grease. Look for beef that is bright red in color and has minimal dark spots, which indicate freshness.
What is the best way to store leftover meatballs and gravy?
Very! To store leftovers, place the Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will be best enjoyed within 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to help retain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze my Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy?
Yes, you can! For optimal freezing, it's best to freeze the meatballs without gravy. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and they will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, warm them in a saucepan with a bit of gravy or broth to keep them moist as they heat up.
What should I do if my meatballs are dry?
Oh, no! Dry meatballs can be caused by overmixing or cooking them too long. To solve this, ensure you mix the ingredients gently and don’t leave them in the skillet longer than necessary. If you find yourself with dry meatballs, try serving them in extra gravy or adding a little beef broth when reheating.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you're cooking for someone with food allergies, be cautious with soy sauce as it contains gluten and can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. For a gluten-free alternative, use tamari sauce instead. Additionally, check the breadcrumbs; there are many gluten-free options available that will work just as well. If pets are part of your family, avoid giving them meatballs made with onions or garlic, as these can be harmful to them.
Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
The more the merrier! While this recipe is tailored for ground beef, you can certainly substitute with ground turkey or even ground chicken. Just keep in mind that those leaner meats may require a bit of added fat (like olive oil) to maintain moisture and flavor. Adjust seasonings as necessary to complement the different flavors.
Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix the lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Form into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Set aside once golden.
- Return to the skillet, add a sprinkle of flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until it turns golden.
- Gradually whisk in the low-sodium beef broth and soy sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Gently return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let them simmer for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve hot over creamy mashed potatoes or noodles.
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