introduction
This is a simple and tasty recipe for Homemade Meatballs with Onion Gravy. You will make beef meatballs, brown them, and cook them in a savory onion gravy. The dish is warm and filling. If you like easy gravy recipes, you might also enjoy Sausage Muffins with Gravy for another simple meal idea.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is:
- Easy and homey.
- Cheap to make.
- Good for weeknights or a family meal.
- Great served over rice or mashed potatoes.
how to make Homemade Meatballs with Onion Gravy
Follow the steps below in order. Use a large bowl and a heavy skillet.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Directions :
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form mixture into meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.
- Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add beef broth to the skillet, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve meatballs with onion gravy over rice or mashed potatoes.
how to serve Homemade Meatballs with Onion Gravy
Serve hot over plain rice, buttered noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes. Add a green side like steamed vegetables or a simple salad. For another hearty main, try pairing with Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for variety.
how to store Homemade Meatballs with Onion Gravy
- Refrigerator: Cool to room temperature, place in a sealed container, and store up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Put meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat until hot. Add a splash of broth or water if the gravy is too thick.
tips to make Homemade Meatballs with Onion Gravy
- Do not overmix the meat mixture. Mix just until ingredients combine.
- Brown meatballs well for better flavor.
- If gravy tastes thin, simmer uncovered a few minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
variation (if any)
- Use half beef and half pork for richer flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of dried thyme to the meat mixture.
- For a creamier gravy, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream at the end of cooking.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until browned, then finish in the gravy for 15–20 minutes.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
A: Yes, but turkey and chicken can be drier. Add a little extra oil or a splash of milk to the meat mix for moisture.
Q: How will I know the meatballs are cooked?
A: Cut one in half. The center should have no pink and the juices should run clear. Or use a meat thermometer: 160°F (71°C) for beef.
Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead?
A: Yes. Make and brown them, then refrigerate or freeze. Reheat in the gravy when ready to serve.
Conclusion
For one more take on meatballs and sauce, see this recipe: Meatballs and Gravy – The Cozy Cook.
Homemade Meatballs with Onion Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form mixture into meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.
- Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add beef broth to the skillet, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes until cooked through.