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Easy Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy Recipe for Quick Dinners

This Easy Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy recipe brings back the comforting flavors of childhood, featuring juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s simple yet satisfying for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1.75 lbs ground beef
  • 1/2 yellow onion
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1.5 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard
  • 1.25 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 2 tsp parsley
  • 1 medium yellow onion
  • 1.5 tbsp unsalted butter (I like Kerrygold for this)
  • 1.25 cup chicken broth
  • 1.25 cup beef broth
  • 1 beef bouillon cube
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1.5 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 drops kitchen bouquet
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.75 lbs of ground beef, 1/2 a finely chopped yellow onion, 1/3 cup of breadcrumbs, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 large egg, 1.5 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp yellow mustard, 1.25 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 3/4 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and 2 tsp parsley. Mix well until combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. This size allows for even cooking. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart to prevent sticking.
  4. Drizzle 3 tbsp of olive oil over the meatballs and bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. They should be browned on the outside and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F). Avoid opening the oven door frequently to maintain the temperature.
  5. While the meatballs bake, prepare the gravy. In a large skillet, melt 1.5 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add one medium yellow onion (sliced) and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds flavor, so take your time.
  6. In a separate bowl, mix 1.25 cup chicken broth, 1.25 cup beef broth, 1 beef bouillon cube, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 0.5 tsp smoked paprika, 1.5 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 3 drops kitchen bouquet, and 1/4 cup water. Stir until well combined.
  7. Once the onions are ready, pour the broth mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
  8. In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp of cornstarch with 3 tbsp of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering gravy, stirring continuously until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Ensure there are no lumps.
  9. Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully add them to the gravy. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The meatballs should be heated through and coated in the rich gravy.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your Easy Ground Beef Meatballs and Gravy!

Nutrition

Keywords: To avoid dry meatballs, don't overmix your meat mixture. Combine just until incorporated. Overworking the meat can lead to tough texture. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of your meatballs. They should reach 160°F for safe consumption, ensuring they're perfectly cooked without being dry.