These tender, juicy meatballs smothered in rich, savory gravy are the ultimate comfort food that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers hearty flavor in every bite. Each meatball is seared to a beautiful golden brown, then simmered gently in a thick, homemade brown gravy that soaks into every crevice. Served over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, they bring a homey warmth that’s pure dinner table nostalgia.

What makes this dish so special is how simple ingredients come together to create something undeniably satisfying. You get a flavorful balance of herbs and spices, with a gravy that’s velvety, savory, and perfect for spooning over everything on your plate. It’s a recipe that invites second helpings and brings smiles all around the table.

What Kind of Ground Meat Should I Use?

You can use ground beef, pork, or a mix of the two. A blend of 80/20 ground beef with ground pork adds great flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works too, but you might want to add a splash of milk or an egg yolk to keep the meatballs tender.

Ingredients for the Meatballs with Gravy Recipe

Ground Beef: The base of your meatballs. Choose 80/20 for juicy texture and rich flavor.

Ground Pork (optional): Enhances flavor and tenderness, creating that melt-in-your-mouth bite.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and gives them structure without being dense.

Egg: Binds the mixture and adds moisture.

Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and adds creaminess.

Onion (grated): Distributes flavor evenly throughout the meatballs without chunky bites.

Garlic (minced): Adds savory depth.

Parsley (chopped): For a pop of color and freshness.

Salt & Black Pepper: The essential seasoning duo.

Butter & Olive Oil: For browning the meatballs to golden perfection.

All-Purpose Flour: The thickener for your gravy.

Beef Broth: The base of your savory brown gravy.

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and complexity to the gravy.

Onions (sliced, for gravy): Caramelizes into sweet-savory bites throughout the sauce.

Heavy Cream (optional): For a creamier, silkier gravy finish.

How To Make the Meatballs with Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef (and pork, if using), breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, or the meatballs may turn out tough.

Step 2: Shape and Brown the Meatballs

Form the meat mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Heat a combination of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally until all sides are golden. Remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed, and toss in the sliced onions. Sauté them over medium heat until soft and caramelized, about 6-8 minutes. They’ll bring a sweet richness to the gravy.

Step 4: Make the Gravy Base

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat evenly. Let the flour cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking constantly, creating a smooth, lump-free sauce. Add Worcestershire sauce and season with a pinch more salt and pepper.

Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through. If you like a creamier gravy, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the meatballs are tender and the gravy is thickened, sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for the ultimate comfort meal.

How to Serve and Store These Meatballs with Gravy

These meatballs are best served warm, ladled generously with the silky gravy. They shine over fluffy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or steamed white rice—anything that can soak up that rich sauce. For a complete meal, pair with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a light garden salad.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen even more overnight, making them a tasty option for quick lunches. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat or the microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the gravy.

For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and gravy in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What to Serve With Meatballs with Gravy

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic companion. They absorb the gravy perfectly and provide a buttery base.

Buttery Egg Noodles

These wide noodles cradle each meatball and offer a satisfying texture that complements the gravy.

Steamed Green Beans

Add freshness and crunch to balance the richness of the meatballs.

Roasted Carrots

A touch of natural sweetness and slight char from roasting pairs well with the savory notes of the dish.

Crusty Bread

Great for mopping up every last drop of gravy.

Creamed Spinach

A rich and velvety side that mirrors the comfort-food vibe of this dish.

Simple Side Salad

A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness and freshens up the plate.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

These crispy potatoes bring a garlicky punch and extra crunch to the table.

Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If these meatballs hit the spot, you’ll love exploring these cozy and satisfying dinner recipes too:

Try this ultra-creamy Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a pasta dish with bold, meaty flavor.
For a one-pan wonder, check out Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, perfect for busy nights.
Need more beefy comfort? This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is both indulgent and satisfying.
Keep the gravy going with Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy for another nostalgic dinner winner.
Or try the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a rich twist on a classic.

Each one brings comforting flavors to your table with easy-to-follow steps—just like today’s recipe.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it whenever the craving hits.

Let me know how your meatballs turned out! Did you go with all beef or mix in pork? Add a creamy touch to the gravy or keep it classic? I love hearing how everyone makes these recipes their own.

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