Ultimate Smothered Meatballs Recipe
These Ultimate Smothered Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and enveloped in a rich savory gravy, making them a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Serve them over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a meal that's sure to impress.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 skillet or frying pan
- 1 spatula
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 meat thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley Additional parsley can be used for garnish.
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Optional for thickening.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as desired.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F).
- Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, and add thyme. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then add it to the skillet, stirring until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the skillet with the gravy and gently coat them. Let them simmer together for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
You can customize the flavors by adding herbs like oregano or basil to the meatball mixture.
Make ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer before baking.