*Meatballs With Gravy("Chiofti Cu Culeas")

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: Mediterranean

Juicy meatballs with savory gravy, featuring seasoned ground beef and a tender, flavorful profile, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped very fine
  • 2 slices bread, soaked in milk, squeezed
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp. oregano
  • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Mix ground beef, chopped onion, soaked and squeezed bread, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper thoroughly.
  2. Shape the mixture into 2-inch meatballs.
  3. Fry the meatballs in a skillet with 2 tablespoons of butter until browned and cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley to the meatball mixture. If you don't have ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. Ensure the bread is well soaked for the right texture, and you can use gluten-free bread if needed. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these meatballs over a bed of pasta or polenta for a hearty meal, or alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting dish. They pair beautifully with Tomato-Lentil Soup(For Microwave) for a complete dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.

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 low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Cover with a lid to steam them gently, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of *Meatballs With Gravy("Chiofti Cu Culeas") contains roughly 738 calories, with 11g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (43% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1125mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).

738 kcal 37% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11g 22% DV
Total Fat 22g 28% DV
Carbs 128.9g 47% DV
Fiber 7.5g 27% DV
Sugar 1.2g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1125.4mg 49% DV
Potassium 557.7mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 144.3mg 48% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 208.3mcg 23% DV
Vitamin C 3.5mg 4% DV
Calcium 302.8mg 23% DV
Iron 7.7mg 43% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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, these meatballs freeze well. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or skillet.

What can I use instead of bread?

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the bread with cooked rice or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Alternatively, oatmeal can be used to bind the meatballs while adding a slightly different texture.

How do I make the gravy?

To make a simple gravy, after frying the meatballs, use the drippings in the skillet. Add flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in beef broth until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper, and pour over the meatballs before serving.

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).

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