There’s just something magical about a plate of Gravy Lover’s Meatballs — each bite is tender, juicy, and generously coated in rich, savory gravy that practically begs to be spooned over fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles. This cozy classic brings together beef and pork in a way that delivers comfort, flavor, and a sense of home, making it the kind of recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again, whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to a little comfort on a hectic weeknight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The great thing about Gravy Lover’s Meatballs is how approachable, yet vital, each ingredient is. Every element—from the humble pantry staples to the silky beef broth—has a purpose, either boosting flavor, binding texture, or thickening the ultra-satisfying gravy. Here’s exactly what you need, and why each one matters:
- Ground beef (1 lb): Brings rich, meaty depth to the meatballs and makes them ultra satisfying.
- Ground pork (1/2 lb): Adds succulence and a hint of sweetness that balances the beef.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Keep the meatballs tender and help them hold their shape perfectly.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Moistens the breadcrumbs for a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Egg (1): The all-important binder so your meatballs don’t fall apart mid-cook.
- Onion, finely chopped (1 small): Provides subtle aromatic sweetness in every bite.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Layers in that familiar, comforting warmth—the meatball’s secret weapon.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Delivers umami depth and a touch of tang.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Lends a gentle touch of heat and balances the richness.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp, for frying): Creates that perfectly browned crust on the outside.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Melds with the flour for a golden, flavorful roux that’s the base of the gravy.
- All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Thickens your luscious gravy—don’t skip it!
- Beef broth (2 cups): Makes the gravy robust, savory, and crave-worthy.
- Dijon mustard (1 tsp): Provides a gentle kick and complexity to the sauce.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Doubles down on that savory-sweet onion flavor.
- Thyme, optional (1/4 tsp): Adds a subtle herbal note—try it if you love earthy flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: For perfecting the gravy and dialing in the seasoning.
How to Make Gravy Lover’s Meatballs
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
Start by grabbing a large bowl and combining your ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined—this keeps the meatballs tender and juicy, never tough. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should get roughly 24 beautifully plump meatballs, ready for their golden makeover.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches to avoid crowding the pan, brown the meatballs on all sides, turning gently to keep them intact. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes total. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set them aside—they’ll return for a luxurious gravy bath soon.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Using the flavorful bits left in your skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Let this bubble for a minute or two until it’s gently golden—it’s the secret to a glossy, rich gravy. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking, making sure there are no lumps. Stir in Dijon mustard, onion powder, thyme if you’re using it, and season with salt and pepper to taste. The aroma alone tells you this is going to be good!
Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in Gravy
Gently nestle the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the gravy. Lower the heat and let them simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. This final step allows the meatballs to finish cooking and soak up all the wonderful gravy flavors, while the sauce thickens into pure comfort food magic.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatballs are fully cooked and the gravy has reached your desired consistency, it’s time to serve. Spoon generous portions over mashed potatoes, wide egg noodles, or rice, letting all that savory sauce pool around the meatballs. Every single bite is a hug in a bowl, and that’s what Gravy Lover’s Meatballs are all about!
How to Serve Gravy Lover’s Meatballs
Garnishes
If you want to brighten up your Gravy Lover’s Meatballs, try scattering fresh chopped parsley or chives on top. For extra indulgence, a dusting of grated Parmesan or even a dollop of sour cream adds layers of flavor and a pop of color. Don’t be shy—these simple garnishes elevate your plate in seconds.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes are a natural partner with Gravy Lover’s Meatballs, soaking up all the luxurious gravy. But you can’t go wrong with buttered egg noodles, soft polenta, or a mound of fluffy rice either. Round out the meal with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Gravy Lover’s Meatballs into sliders by nestling them in soft rolls with a spoonful of gravy—perfect party bites! Or try serving them over toasted sourdough or as an open-faced sandwich. For something a little different, pile the meatballs and gravy over creamy polenta or serve with roasted root vegetables for a rustic, elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Gravy Lover’s Meatballs store beautifully. Simply transfer them with their gravy into an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making your next meal even more delicious!
Freezing
For longer storage, Gravy Lover’s Meatballs are also freezer-friendly. Allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely, then portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep well for up to three months—just label and date for easy meal planning.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently warm the meatballs and gravy in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if needed. You can also heat individual portions in the microwave, covering lightly to prevent splatters. The goal is to warm them through without drying them out—low and slow does the trick!
FAQs
Can I make Gravy Lover’s Meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate them, or even cook them completely and store them with the gravy. In fact, letting the flavors mingle overnight can make the dish taste even better the next day.
What’s the best way to keep the meatballs tender?
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture—combine just until everything is together. Also, soaking the breadcrumbs in milk adds moisture for that perfect, soft texture inside every bite.
Can I swap out the meats?
Yes, you can! If you prefer, use all beef or substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that a blend of beef and pork yields the juiciest, most flavorful Gravy Lover’s Meatballs.
How do I make the gravy even richer?
For extra decadent results, use homemade beef stock or stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings to your taste—gravy is all about building layers of comfort.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Of course! Set your oven to 400°F and bake the shaped meatballs on a lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes. Then, pop them into the gravy to finish simmering. This hands-off approach is great for busy days or when making a larger batch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s cozy, satisfying, and effortlessly crowd-pleasing, you simply have to try making Gravy Lover’s Meatballs. One bite and you’ll understand why this recipe has a permanent place in my comfort food rotation. Gather your ingredients, invite your favorite people over, and get ready to enjoy the kind of meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Print
Gravy Lover’s Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Gravy Lover’s Meatballs are a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a cozy meal. Juicy meatballs are smothered in a rich and savory gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Brown meatballs in olive oil in a skillet. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Gravy: Melt butter in the skillet, stir in flour to form a roux. Whisk in beef broth, then add Dijon mustard, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Return meatballs to the skillet, simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and gravy thickens.
- Serve: Serve hot over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use homemade beef stock or add a splash of cream at the end.
- You can also bake the meatballs at 400°F for 20 minutes instead of frying.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 4 meatballs with gravy
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
