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A hearty recipe for meatballs and gravy made with tender beef, caramelized onions, and a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this classic comfort food pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or noodles. Featuring simple ingredients and easy instructions, it’s a go-to dish for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Make this flavorful recipe your new favorite with helpful tips, substitutions, and FAQs included.

Ingredients

Meatballs:

3 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
1 ½ lbs. ground beef (85% lean)
½ yellow onion, finely diced
¼ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped

Gravy:

1 medium yellow onion, sliced into ½-inch strings
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup beef broth
1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon)
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2-3 drops Kitchen Bouquet browning and seasoning sauce (optional)
¼ cup cold water + 3 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

Prepare and Brown the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients (except olive oil) gently, being careful not to overmix to avoid tough meatballs. Roll the mixture into 1 ½-inch balls.
- Pro Tip: Refrigerate the meatballs for 15 minutes after rolling to help them hold their shape while cooking.
Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 5-6 meatballs at a time, leaving enough space around each for easy turning. Brown them for about 2 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside. Repeat with all meatballs.

Caramelize the Onions:

Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring often, for about 15 minutes until softened and caramelized.

Make the Gravy:

Add chicken broth, beef broth, beef bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet using a silicone spatula to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Optional: Add 2-3 drops of Kitchen Bouquet for a richer color.
In a small container with a lid, combine cornstarch and cold water. Shake well until smooth.
Bring the gravy to a boil and slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Stir until the desired thickness is achieved. Lower the heat to medium-low, whisking occasionally.

Finish the Dish:

Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them. Cook for about 10 minutes to ensure the meatballs are fully cooked.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over mashed potatoes or your preferred side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food Classic: A hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners.
Rich and Savory Gravy: Deep flavors from caramelized onions and two types of broth.
Easy to Make: Straightforward steps for delicious results.
Customizable: Simple to adjust flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

Tips

Chilling Meatballs: Refrigerating the meatballs before cooking helps them stay intact.
Onion Caramelization: Don’t rush this step—caramelizing onions adds a sweet depth to the gravy.
Deglazing the Pan: Scraping up browned bits ensures maximum flavor in the gravy.
Thickness Adjustment: Add more cornstarch mixture for thicker gravy or additional broth for thinner sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Ground Meat: Substitute ground turkey or pork for beef, or use a mix for extra flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Seasonings: Add smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicier kick.
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and brown the meatballs a day ahead. Store them in the refrigerator and finish cooking them in the gravy when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze the cooked meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Pairing: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.
Vegetable Sides: Pair with roasted green beans, steamed broccoli, or a crisp green salad.
Bread: Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy.

Enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!