Delicious Meatballs And Gravy
Delicious meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato gravy, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The hearty sauce combines fresh tomatoes, garlic, and onions for a comforting dish full of savory goodness that pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the onion and add garlic to oil in a large pot.
- Saute until the onion is soft, being careful not to burn.
- Strain the canned tomatoes.
- Add the strained tomatoes, tomato puree, salt, black pepper, water, and sugar to the pot.
- Cook the mixture on low to medium heat for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the sauce. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute olive oil for the oil in the recipe. Using crushed tomatoes instead of whole can enhance the texture of the sauce. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed for your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs and gravy over a bed of spaghetti or alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side of Quick Cole Slaw pairs beautifully with this dish, adding a refreshing crunch. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Meatballs And Gravy contains roughly 1513 calories, with 54g protein, 328g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (387% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (167% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2384mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. You'll need to peel and chop them, and keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly. Using about 6-8 cups of fresh tomatoes should work well, but cooking time may need adjustment.
What type of meat is best for the meatballs?
Ground beef is traditional, but you can also use a mix of ground pork and beef for added flavor. For a lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, substitute with lentils or a meat substitute found in vegan recipes.
Can I freeze the meatballs and gravy?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Let the meatballs and gravy cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).