Why You’ll Love This Easy Dinner
Classic Comfort Food. Meatballs and gravy is the kind of meal that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy Sunday dinners. It’s a timeless favorite.Easy to Make. This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. You’ll have dinner on the table without a fuss.Versatile. Serve these delicious meatballs with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice. They’re incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes.Crowd-Pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a group of friends, meatballs and gravy are sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Meatballs and gravy are a cherished classic, offering warmth and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.
What Holds Meatballs Together?
Meatballs are typically held together by a combination of ingredients that act as binding agents. Here are the ingredients that play the most critical role in holding them together:
Breadcrumbs- Breadcrumbs are added to meatball mixtures to absorb moisture and help bind the ingredients together. They also contribute to the texture of the meatballs. You can use fresh breadcrumbs or dried breadcrumbs, depending on the recipe.Egg- Eggs are a common binding agent in meatball recipes. They help hold the meat mixture together by providing structure and stability. Beaten eggs are mixed into the meatball mixture, where they coagulate during cooking, helping to maintain the meatball’s shape.
Why Add Milk When Making Meatballs?
Milk adds moisture to the meatball mixture, helping to keep the meatballs tender and preventing them from becoming too dry during cooking. The milk also contributes to the texture of the meatballs, making them softer and more delicate. It helps create a more pleasing mouthfeel, especially when combined with other binding ingredients like breadcrumbs and eggs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Our meatballs and gravy recipe features a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Here are the key ingredients you’ll need:
Ground Beef and Ground Pork- Provides a rich and hearty base for the meatballs.Breadcrumbs- These help bind the meatballs together and add a subtle crunch.Onion and Garlic- For that aromatic and savory kick.Milk- Keeps the meatballs tender and moist.Egg- Acts as a binding agent for the meatballs.Salt and Pepper- Essential seasonings for flavor.All-Purpose flour- Used for dredging the meatballs before frying.Vegetable Oil- For frying the meatballs to golden perfection.Beef Broth- Creates a flavorful and savory gravy.Worcestershire Sauce- Adds depth and a hint of umami.Heavy Cream- Gives the gravy a creamy and luxurious texture.Fresh Parsley- A fresh and vibrant garnish for the finished dish.
How To Make Meatballs And Gravy
Prepare The Meatballs
Fry The Meatballs
Make The Gravy
Combine And Serve
Tips And Tricks
Making meatballs and gravy can be a delicious and comforting meal. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the best results:
Choose the Right Meat. Use a mixture of ground meats for flavor and texture. A common combination is equal parts ground beef, pork, and veal. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.Soak Breadcrumbs. If you’re using breadcrumbs as a binder, soak them in milk before adding them to the meat mixture. This helps keep the meatballs moist and tender.Mix Gently. Don’t overwork the meat mixture. Use your hands or a gentle touch to combine the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Variations
Meatballs with gravy are a versatile dish that you can customize in various ways to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:
Italian Meatballs- Use a mixture of ground beef, pork, and veal, seasoned with Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley. Instead of brown gravy, serve with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella or Parmesan cheese. Serve over spaghetti or in a sub roll for a meatball sandwich.BBQ Meatballs- Season the meatballs with BBQ sauce, garlic, and smoked paprika. Make a BBQ sauce-based gravy using your favorite BBQ sauce mixed with beef broth. Serve with coleslaw and cornbread.Sweet and Sour Meatballs- Add pineapple chunks and bell peppers to the gravy for a sweet and tangy twist. Use a combination of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce to create the sweet and sour sauce. Serve over rice or noodles.
What To Serve With Meatballs And Gravy
Meatballs and gravy are a classic and hearty dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious side dish options to consider:
Mashed Potatoes- Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to meatballs and gravy. The smooth texture of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with the rich gravy.Egg Noodles- Egg noodles are a classic choice to serve with meatballs and gravy. They soak up the gravy nicely and provide a satisfying base for the dish.Rice- White or brown rice is a versatile side dish that can complement meatballs and gravy. It’s an excellent option if you prefer a gluten-free alternative to noodles or potatoes.Roasted Vegetables- A side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, adds color, nutrition, and a delightful contrast in texture to the meal.
How Long Does It Last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your meatballs and gravy will last for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, meatballs and gravy freeze beautifully. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Portion the meatballs and gravy into freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic freezer bags. Label each container or bag with the date of freezing. Enjoy the leftover meatballs within 2-3 months for the best flavor and texture.
More Meatball Recipes
Buffalo Chicken MeatballsMeatball CasseroleSlow Cooker Cranberry MeatballsInstant Pot Swedish MeatballsAir Fryer Meatballs
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