Meatballs and Gravy Recipe – Easy Homemade Comfort Food for Every Dinner Table

Introduction

Few dishes deliver the same kind of comfort and satisfaction as a warm plate of meatballs and gravy. The rich aroma that fills the kitchen while the meatballs simmer in creamy brown gravy instantly brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights at home. Every bite offers a blend of tender, juicy meat paired with smooth, flavorful gravy that feels like pure comfort on a plate.

This recipe has deep roots in both traditional home cooking and classic European cuisine. It has evolved over time, finding a special place in kitchens across the world. Whether you are serving it over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or fluffy rice, meatballs and gravy can easily become a family favorite.

Cooking this dish from scratch may sound intimidating, but it is surprisingly simple once you break it down step by step. The ingredients are affordable and easy to find, and the process requires only basic kitchen skills. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can adjust the flavors, switch up the seasonings, or even make it with a different type of meat without losing that signature comforting taste.

In this guide, you will learn how to make classic meatballs and gravy that are perfectly seasoned, juicy, and full of flavor. You will also find practical tips for customizing the recipe to your taste, nutritional details, and creative ways to serve it.

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Ingredients Needed

The key to great meatballs and gravy lies in fresh ingredients and balanced seasoning. Below is a list of everything you will need, along with approximate calorie counts for each ingredient.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Ground beef (80 percent lean)	1 pound	770
Ground pork	½ pound	440
Bread crumbs	½ cup	200
Whole milk	¼ cup	38
Large egg	1	70
Onion (finely chopped)	1 small	45
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	10
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons	5
Salt	1 teaspoon	0
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	2
Butter	3 tablespoons	300
All-purpose flour	3 tablespoons	100
Beef broth	2 cups	30
Worcestershire sauce	1 teaspoon	10
Heavy cream	½ cup	200

Total Calories (Approximate): 2220 (serves 4 to 5 people)

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the meat mixture
   Combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are evenly blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.Looking for something similar? Check out _One Pot Pasta .
2. Shape the meatballs
   Roll the mixture into small, even-sized balls. Aim for golf-ball-sized portions for the best texture and even cooking. Place them on a plate or tray while you prepare to cook.
3. Brown the meatballs
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of butter. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook until they are browned on all sides. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage since they will finish cooking in the gravy. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
4. Make the roux for the gravy
   In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously until it forms a smooth paste. Continue whisking for about two minutes until the roux turns light brown. This step builds the rich base for your gravy.
5. Add the liquid
   Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens. Add Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
6. Add the cream
   Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the gravy becomes smooth and velvety. Adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a deeper color and more robust flavor, you can add a bit more Worcestershire sauce or a touch of soy sauce.
7. Simmer the meatballs
   Gently place the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly and absorb the flavor of the sauce.
8. Finish and serve
   Once the meatballs are fully cooked and the gravy has thickened, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meatballs with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice for a hearty meal.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Change the meat: You can use turkey, chicken, or lamb instead of beef and pork. Each will add a unique flavor and texture to your dish.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce to the mixture for a little heat.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk and vegan butter if you prefer a lighter or lactose-free option.
• Add more herbs: Fresh thyme, oregano, or basil can enhance the flavor and aroma.
• Create a deeper gravy flavor: Sauté mushrooms or onions in the pan before making the roux. They add a wonderful umami richness.
• Meal prep tip: Meatballs freeze very well. You can store them in the freezer with the gravy for up to three months.

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Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	440
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	14 g
Fat	30 g
Saturated Fat	12 g
Cholesterol	120 mg
Sodium	380 mg
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	2 g

These values are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion size. To make the recipe lighter, consider reducing the cream or using leaner meat.

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Serving Suggestions

Meatballs and gravy pair beautifully with a wide range of sides. The classic choice is creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the gravy perfectly. Buttered egg noodles or steamed white rice are also great options that balance the richness of the dish.

For a more complete meal, add a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or green beans. A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the heaviness of the gravy.

If you are serving this for a special occasion, consider topping it with caramelized onions or serving it in a cast iron skillet for a rustic presentation. Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop overnight.

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FAQs

1. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them raw or cooked for later use.

2. How can I make the gravy thicker?
If your gravy turns out thin, whisk together a teaspoon of flour with a bit of cold water and stir it into the simmering gravy until it reaches the desired consistency.

3. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Absolutely. Bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes until browned, then add them to the gravy to finish cooking.

4. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Replace the bread crumbs with gluten-free ones and use cornstarch instead of flour for the gravy.

5. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half, whole milk, or even unsweetened coconut milk can work well depending on your taste preferences.

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Conclusion

Cooking meatballs and gravy at home brings a comforting sense of satisfaction that few other dishes can match. The combination of tender meat and rich, flavorful sauce feels like a warm hug after a long day. Once you master the basic recipe, it becomes a reliable go-to meal that you can adapt to suit your mood or dietary needs.