There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of tender meatballs bathed in rich, savory gravy. Whether served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, this dish delivers the kind of home-cooked warmth that feels like a big cozy hug. Perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers, meatballs with gravy are as crowd-pleasing as they are easy to make.

These meatballs aren’t your average variety. They’re packed with flavor from garlic and onion, browned to perfection, then simmered gently in a creamy, peppery brown gravy. It’s a combination that takes a simple classic and gives it a hearty upgrade. And let’s not forget—that silky gravy? It might just steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Meatballs with Gravy Recipe

This dish checks all the boxes: cozy, filling, flavorful, and forgiving. It uses pantry staples and can be made ahead of time, reheated beautifully, and even frozen for later. The meatballs are juicy and tender thanks to a blend of beef and breadcrumbs, and the gravy has just enough depth to make it feel restaurant-worthy without needing a lot of fuss.

If you’re looking for a dinner that wins over picky eaters and grown-up palates alike, this is the one. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with herbs, spices, and mix-ins to match your taste or what you have on hand.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Meatballs with Gravy?

For meatballs that are moist yet hold together well, a mix of ground beef with a bit of fat (like 80/20) works best. If you want to get creative, you can swap in ground turkey or chicken, or even a 50/50 blend with pork for extra richness. Just make sure not to go too lean, as some fat is needed to keep the meatballs from drying out during cooking.

Ingredients for the Meatballs with Gravy Recipe

To bring these meatballs to life, you only need a handful of basic ingredients that likely already live in your kitchen. Each one plays a role in either building a juicy, flavorful meatball or enriching that velvety, mouthwatering gravy.

Ground beef
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Milk
Yellow onion
Garlic
Salt and black pepper
Butter
All-purpose flour
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Heavy cream (optional but adds silkiness to the gravy)

How To Make the Meatballs with Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Form the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough meatballs. Shape the mixture into evenly sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt some butter. Add the meatballs in batches, searing them on all sides until they develop a golden crust. They don’t need to be cooked through yet. Transfer them to a plate while you prepare the gravy.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet (don’t clean it out—those browned bits are flavor gold), melt more butter and stir in the flour to make a roux. Cook for a minute, then gradually whisk in the beef broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, a bit more salt and pepper, and stir until smooth. Let it simmer until thickened, then stir in the heavy cream if using.

Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and juicy. Give the pan an occasional stir to make sure nothing sticks.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Once everything is bubbly and luscious, serve the meatballs and gravy hot over your favorite base—mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles are all excellent choices.

How to Serve and Store These Meatballs with Gravy

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering. Serve the meatballs piping hot, generously spooned with gravy over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even creamy polenta. The contrast between the rich gravy and a starchy base makes each bite warm and comforting.

Storing leftovers is simple. Let everything cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerated, the meatballs and gravy will keep well for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the gravy thickens too much.

What to Serve With Meatballs with Gravy?

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing. Their buttery texture perfectly catches the rich gravy.

Roasted Green Beans

A bright and crisp veggie like green beans adds freshness and contrast to the hearty meatballs.

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Soft rolls are ideal for soaking up any leftover gravy on your plate.

Creamed Spinach

The silky texture and light bitterness of spinach balance the richness of the dish.

Buttered Egg Noodles

Wide noodles tossed in a bit of butter make an easy, comforting base.

Apple Cider Slaw

Something crunchy and lightly acidic like a vinegar-based slaw brings a refreshing contrast.

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

If you’re skipping mashed potatoes, crispy roasted ones with rosemary work beautifully.

Caramelized Onions

Serve a spoonful on top or alongside the meatballs for extra savory sweetness.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Cozy Twist?

If you’re loving these meatballs with gravy, there are plenty more comforting meals to explore on Janet Dishes:

• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a light, fresh variation.
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta when you’re in the mood for something rich and vegetarian.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for another creamy meatball experience.
• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole if you’re craving beefy depth and cheesy goodness.
• Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese for the ultimate side dish or cozy main.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use beef or try turkey? Did you go all-in on the cream or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food and family-style meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite dish.

Conclusion

These meatballs with gravy are simple, satisfying, and made for sharing. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a go-to comfort meal, this dish always delivers. The juicy meatballs and rich gravy combination never fails to please—especially when paired with something starchy to soak it all up.