Name: Savory Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20) (Avoid leaner options to prevent dryness.); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Finely diced.); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Gluten-free option works.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh garlic is recommended.); 1 large Egg (Can use flax egg for vegan option.); 1 tablespoon Ketchup (Adds sweetness.); 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard (Dijon mustard is a good alternative.); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Enhances umami flavors.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 2 tablespoons Parsley (Fresh or dried substitutes are fine.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with olive oil.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Or use beef broth.); 1 cup Beef Broth (Or use vegetable broth.); 1 cube Beef Bouillon (Or use homemade stock.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Essential for thickening.); 2 tablespoons Water (To mix with cornstarch.)

In the midst of a busy week, I found myself staring at a fridge full of ingredients and a craving for something comforting. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Easy Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy. These meatballs are not only the epitome of homemade comfort food, but they’re also incredibly easy to make, bringing the warm, familiar feeling of family dinners right to your table. Each tender meatball, enveloped in a rich, flavorful gravy, promises to be a hit with everyone, leaving fast food in the dust. And the best part? They freeze beautifully, allowing you to enjoy that delicious homemade taste anytime. Ready to dive into the world of savory satisfaction? Let’s get cooking!

Why are homemade meatballs a must-try?

Comforting Flavors: Each bite of these meatballs is infused with rich, savory goodness, thanks to a perfect blend of spices and quality ingredients.

Quick & Easy: This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, requiring only a handful of simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair these meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes or even toss them into a sandwich for a hearty meal.

Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and store leftovers for those nights when you crave comfort but are short on time.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner party, these savory meatballs guarantee smiles all around! In search of more cozy options? Try Baked Meatballs Savory for another delightful twist on comfort food!

Ground Beef Meatballs Ingredients

• Dive into making these ground beef meatballs with this easy ingredient list!

For the Meatballs

Ground Beef – Use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy texture; avoid leaner options to prevent dryness.
Olive Oil – Essential for browning the meatballs; can substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.
Yellow Onion – Finely diced for even cooking and flavor; shallots or green onions can be good alternatives.
Breadcrumbs – Helps hold meatballs together; gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for a lighter option.
Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; garlic powder is an easy substitute in a pinch.
Egg – A binder that retains moisture and shape; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Ketchup – Adds sweetness and moisture; BBQ sauce can create a different flavor profile.
Yellow Mustard – Provides a tangy kick; dijon mustard is a great alternative if you prefer!
Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavors; soy sauce can replicate the depth if needed.
Salt and Pepper – Basic yet essential for flavor; adjust according to your taste.
Parsley – Freshness brings brightness; substitute with dried parsley or mint for a twist.

For the Gravy

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the gravy; olive oil can make it dairy-free.
Chicken and Beef Broth – Provides moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is perfect for a lighter touch.
Beef Bouillon Cube – Intensifies the beef flavor; homemade stock is an excellent substitute.
Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika – Enhance seasoning in the gravy; adjust to taste.
Cornstarch and Water – Essential for thickening; omit for a runnier gravy if you prefer.

Let’s gather your ingredients and get started on this delightful journey to homemade comfort!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy

Step 1: Make Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and finely chopped parsley. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat. Roll the mixture into 24-26 meatballs, each about 1.5 inches in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Brown Meatballs
Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the meatballs in batches (5-6 at a time) to avoid overcrowding, searing them for about 2 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate while you continue with the remaining batches.

Step 3: Prepare Gravy
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, scraping up any tasty bits left from the meatballs. Add finely diced yellow onion and sauté for about 15 minutes until the onions become soft and golden. Once ready, pour in chicken broth and beef broth and add a beef bouillon cube along with your desired seasonings. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Thicken Gravy
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the simmering gravy while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Let the gravy cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency—aim for a rich, velvety texture to complement the meatballs.

Step 5: Simmer Meatballs
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, carefully stirring to coat each one in the luscious gravy. Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs simmer gently in the gravy for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. The meatballs should be heated through and coated in that comforting sauce.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once simmered, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to enhance flavor and texture. Serve the Easy Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside egg noodles for a delightful meal. Enjoy the comforting aroma that will surely fill your home!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful. Simply mix the ingredients and form the meatballs, then store them in an airtight container. The gravy can also be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the gravy in a skillet, add the refrigerated meatballs, and simmer until heated through—this retains flavor and tenderness, giving you comforting, homemade goodness in no time!

Expert Tips for Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy

Perfectly Tender Meatballs: Avoid overmixing the ground beef mixture. This will keep your meatballs soft and juicy without becoming tough.
Batch Cooking: Fry meatballs in small batches to maintain the right temperature in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of the desirable browning.
Caramelize Onions: Take your time when cooking the onions for the gravy; a slow and steady caramelization releases natural sugars, deepening the flavor of the gravy.
Smooth Gravy: When adding the cornstarch mixture to the boiling gravy, stir gradually to prevent lumps. This ensures a silky, rich gravy that generously coats the meatballs.
Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in both meatballs and gravy according to your personal preference, making this recipe truly your own comfort food classic.

What to Serve with Easy Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy

Transform your cozy dinner into a delightful feast by pairing these savory meatballs with fresh, complementary sides and tantalizing drinks.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food pairing, these fluffy potatoes soak up rich gravy, creating a delicious harmony of flavors.
Butter Lettuce Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the meatballs, offering a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Green Beans: Their slightly charred, crunchy texture enhances the meal while adding a pop of vibrant color and nutrition.
Egg Noodles: They provide a tender base that captures the gravy perfectly, making each bite a burst of comforting flavor.

Pairing your meatballs with buttery egg noodles creates a delightful experience. As you slurp up the noodles coated in gravy, you’ll savor every nostalgic moment at the dinner table.

Buttered Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots add a touch of sweetness and a splash of color, beautifully balancing out the savory meatballs.
Dinner Rolls: Soft and warm rolls are perfect for soaking up extra gravy, ensuring no delicious drop goes to waste.
Chardonnay: A glass of this white wine enhances the dish’s bold flavors while adding a refreshing finish to each bite.
Chocolate Pudding: End your meal with a homemade chocolate pudding for a sweet touch, contrasting deliciously with the savory meatballs.

Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Variations

Feel free to personalize this recipe and make it your own with a few exciting twists!

Lean Turkey: Switch ground beef for ground turkey for a healthier, lighter alternative while maintaining moisture.
Gluten-Free: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as crushed rice cakes or finely ground oats. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or thyme into the meatballs for a fragrant herbaceous flavor that elevates your dish to the next level.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture for a delightful spicy surprise! This adds an exciting layer of flavor with each bite.
BBQ Flavor: Swap out ketchup for BBQ sauce in both the meatballs and gravy to give a smoky sweetness that’s absolutely irresistible.
Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the gravy for an extra luscious, creamy texture—perfect for those comfort food cravings!
Vegetarian Option: For a plant-based twist, use lentils or black beans as a meat substitute and quinoa or oats as a binder to create satisfying meat-free meatballs.
Asian Flair: Introduce soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil into the meat mixture for an Asian-inspired flavor profile. Serve with rice for a delightful fusion meal!

Feeling adventurous? Alongside these variations, you can create new dishes like Ground Beef Enchiladas or give a try to the delightful flavors in Baked Chicken Meatballs! Enjoy experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy

Fridge: Store your meatballs and gravy in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, portion out individual servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Microwaving is also an option but can alter the texture slightly.

Thawing: Always thaw frozen meatballs and gravy in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even warming and retain the delightful flavors.

Easy Homemade Ground Beef Meatballs with Rich Gravy Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ground beef?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, choose 80/20 ground beef. Avoid leaner options, as they tend to dry out during cooking, leaving you with less juicy meatballs.

What is the best way to store leftover meatballs and gravy?
You can store the meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’ve cooled completely before sealing to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze meatballs and gravy? How?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months! To do this, allow the dish to cool fully, then transfer the meatballs and gravy into a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Be sure to label it with the date. When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove.

What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
Very! If your gravy turns out thicker than desired, you can whisk in a little extra broth or water over low heat, stirring until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and gradually add it to the gravy while stirring—allow it to simmer for a few minutes to thicken up.

Are these meatballs suitable for kids?
Definitely! These meatballs are not only delicious but also kid-friendly. You can adjust the seasonings to be milder if needed. Just remember to monitor for allergies to ingredients like egg or gluten in breadcrumbs.

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary needs?
Certainly! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil in the gravy. Additionally, a flax egg can replace the regular egg if needed. Explore these options to make the recipe work for you!