Meatballs In Brown Gravy
Savory meatballs simmered in rich brown gravy with onions, perfect served over noodles or rice for a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble the stale bread and add it to the ground meat.
- Add dried minced onion, egg, and salt to the mixture.
- Form the mixture into balls and roll each in flour.
- Brown the meatballs in margarine in a skillet.
- Once browned, add the Heinz brown gravy and French onion soup to the skillet.
- Cover with a lid and simmer for 1 hour.
- Serve hot with noodles or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the meatball mixture. If you don't have stale bread, fresh breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can work as a substitute. Remember to keep the heat moderate while browning the meatballs to prevent burning. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes that feature creamy sides.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. They pair well with noodles or rice, but you can also serve them on a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad complements the rich gravy nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs In Brown Gravy contains roughly 1321 calories, with 86g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (172% of the Daily Value), iron (142% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (117% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 turkey or chicken instead of beef for the meatballs?
Yes, using lean ground turkey or chicken can create a lighter version of these meatballs. Just be mindful that poultry may require a slightly shorter cooking time to remain moist and tender.
How can I thicken the gravy if it's too thin?
If the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then adding it to the skillet and simmering until it thickens. Alternatively, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce it.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. Simply brown them the day you're ready to serve, then add the gravy and soup. This makes for a convenient meal option when you're short on time.
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).