Meat Balls And Brown Gravy
Tender meatballs with a savory brown gravy, perfect for hearty family dinners and versatile enough to serve with mashed potatoes or pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix hamburger meat, chopped onion, egg, crushed cracker crumbs, garlic, and salt.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet until cooked through and browned on all sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned breadcrumbs in place of crushed cracker crumbs. You can also mix in some finely chopped parsley or Italian seasoning to the meatball mixture. If you're short on time, use a store-bought meatball mix to speed up the process. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs with a rich brown gravy over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal. They pair well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for balance. For a fun twist, serve them in a sub roll topped with cheese for a meatball sandwich. They also complement American recipes like Deep South Chili or Hamburger And Peppers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover with a lid to steam them gently. They can also be reheated in the microwave, but be cautious not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Balls And Brown Gravy contains roughly 946 calories, with 17g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1341mg per serving (58% 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 freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, shape them and place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked meatballs, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and reheated directly from frozen.
What can I use instead of hamburger meat?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Just ensure that any alternative you choose is seasoned well to maintain the flavor profile in the dish.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, they should be browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. Cooking times may vary based on the size of the meatballs, so adjust accordingly.
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).