Indulge in the ultimate comfort food tonight with Gravy Lover’s Meatballs. These rich, savory meatballs are utterly satisfying and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a comfort food enthusiast or just craving something hearty, these meatballs will hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then form the mixture into meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 10-12 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of your favorite herbs or spices to the meatball mixture.
- If the gravy seems too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more beef broth.
- Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
With its simple ingredients and delicious flavors, Gravy Lover’s Meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just treating yourself to some comfort food, these meatballs are a perfect choice. Enjoy the rich, savory goodness of this classic dish tonight!
- Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for the meatballs?
- Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can certainly substitute it with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but the meatballs will still be delicious. Ground pork can also be used for added richness.
- Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for later use?
- Yes, you can definitely prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for later use. After forming the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before following the cooking instructions in the recipe.
- Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs in this recipe?
- Yes, if you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute for the breadcrumbs called for in the recipe. Make sure to check the labels of the breadcrumbs or crackers to ensure they are certified gluten-free. You can also use finely ground oats or almond flour as alternatives for a gluten-free option.
- What can I serve with Gravy Lover’s Meatballs?
- Gravy Lover’s Meatballs pair well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables. The savory gravy from the meatballs is delicious drizzled over mashed potatoes or soaked up by a bed of rice. Feel free to get creative with your side dish choices based on your personal preferences and dietary needs.
- Can I double or triple the recipe for a larger gathering?
- Absolutely! If you’re cooking for a crowd or want to have leftovers for future meals, you can easily double or triple the ingredients in the recipe. Simply adjust the quantities accordingly and make sure to use a large enough skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume. Cooking times may vary slightly when preparing larger batches, so keep an eye on the meatballs and gravy as they cook to ensure they don’t overcook or burn.
- Can I use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought?
- Yes, homemade beef broth can be used in place of store-bought broth for a more flavorful option. If you have homemade beef broth on hand, feel free to use it in the recipe. Alternatively, if you don’t have beef broth available, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth, although the flavor profile may differ slightly.
- How can I prevent the meatballs from falling apart while cooking?
- To prevent the meatballs from falling apart while cooking, make sure the mixture is well combined and compacted when forming the meatballs. Adding breadcrumbs soaked in milk helps bind the mixture together. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the meatballs, as this can cause them to steam rather than brown evenly. Allow enough space between each meatball to ensure they cook properly and maintain their shape.