Meatballs and Brown Gravy
This classic Meatballs and Brown Gravy recipe is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Juicy, tender meatballs are smothered in a rich, savory brown gravy that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. It’s a meal that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
Ingredients Overview
- Ground Beef and Ground Turkey: These create a tender and flavorful meatball. You can use all beef if preferred.
- Breadcrumbs and Egg: Essential for binding the meatballs together.
- Onion and Garlic: Add aromatic depth to the meatballs and gravy.
- Beef Broth: Forms the base of the brown gravy.
- Flour and Butter: Used to create the roux for a smooth, thickened gravy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Mix gently until combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
2. Shape and Cook the Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until browned and cooked through.
3. Make the Brown Gravy
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in 4 tablespoons of flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, to form a golden roux.
- Gradually add 3 cups of beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Season with:
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Meatballs and Gravy
- Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the gravy.
- Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors.
5. Serve
- Serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t Overmix the Meatballs: Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
- Add Extra Flavor: Sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the meatball mixture for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare and freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles
- Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables
- A simple green salad or crusty bread
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground chicken, pork, or all beef for the meatballs.
Can I make the gravy gluten-free?
Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch slurry.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Gravy:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Mix all meatball ingredients and shape into 1-inch balls.
- Bake meatballs for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.
- Prepare the gravy by making a roux with butter and flour, then whisking in beef broth and seasonings.
- Add cooked meatballs to the gravy and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
This Meatballs and Brown Gravy recipe is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that will quickly become a family favorite!
This classic Meatballs and Brown
This classic Meatballs and Brown Gravy recipe is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Juicy, tender meatballs are smothered in a rich, savory brown gravy that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. It’s a meal that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying!
Equipment
- Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Gravy:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Mix all meatball ingredients and shape into 1-inch balls.
- Bake meatballs for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.
- Prepare the gravy by making a roux with butter and flour, then whisking in beef broth and seasonings.
- Add cooked meatballs to the gravy and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
- This Meatballs and Brown Gravy recipe is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that will quickly become a family favorite!