In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth, then stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Serve the meatballs and gravy hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this delectable Meatballs and Gravy dish, you’ll need:
Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Cooking utensils (spatula, whisk)
Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare with this crowd-pleaser!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the meatballs and gravy in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
For a comforting meal, serve your meatballs and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles. For a lighter option, try pairing them with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. And don’t forget to have some crusty bread on hand to soak up every last bit of that delicious gravy!
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option, or add chopped onions and bell peppers to the meatball mixture for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature meatball recipe.
FAQ
Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Q: Can I use store-bought meatballs for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While homemade meatballs are delicious, you can certainly use pre-made meatballs from the store to save time. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as store-bought meatballs may cook faster than homemade ones.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option for the gravy? A: Yes! You can substitute coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for the heavy cream in the gravy to make it dairy-free.
Conclusion
Elevate your dinner game with the irresistible combination of tender meatballs and savory gravy. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this classic dish is sure to hit the spot. Share the love by spreading the word and subscribing to our blog for more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!
