Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers juicy meatballs infused with herbs and spices, slowly cooked in a luscious gravy that’s packed with depth and warmth. It’s an easy-to-make, family-friendly meal that brings cozy, homestyle flavors to your table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef or a beef
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Breadcrumbs
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Egg
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Onion (finely chopped)
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Garlic (minced)
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Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and pepper
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Butter or oil
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All-purpose flour
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Beef broth
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Milk or cream
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into meatballs.
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Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, sprinkle flour and whisk to make a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
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Gradually whisk in beef broth and milk or cream, stirring until smooth and thickened.
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Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the gravy for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and sauce is thick.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
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Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
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Add grated Parmesan or shredded cheese to the meatballs.
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Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the gravy for extra flavor.
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Serve over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes before simmering in gravy.
How do I prevent meatballs from falling apart?
Don’t overmix the meat and use breadcrumbs and egg to bind.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour substitutes.
Can I prepare the dish ahead?
Yes, prepare meatballs and gravy separately, then combine before serving.
How thick should the gravy be?
It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
Can I freeze smothered meatballs?
Yes, freeze cooked meatballs and gravy separately for best texture.
How do I add more flavor to the gravy?
Sauté onions or garlic before adding flour for richer taste.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, add peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the gravy.
What sides work best with smothered meatballs?
Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed rice.
Are smothered meatballs kid-friendly?
Yes, mild flavors and tender texture make them a favorite for kids.
Conclusion
Smothered Meatballs are a comforting and hearty dish that combines juicy meatballs with rich, flavorful gravy. Easy to make and perfect for family meals, this classic recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table.

Smothered Meatballs
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Smothered Meatballs are tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy, making a comforting and hearty meal. Perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this easy recipe brings homestyle warmth and deep flavors to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or beef
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp butter or oil
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups beef broth
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½ cup milk or cream
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and shape into meatballs.
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Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, sprinkle flour and whisk to form a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
-
Gradually whisk in beef broth and milk or cream, stirring until smooth and thickened.
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Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the gravy for 20-25 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is thick.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.Ad grated Parmesan or shredded cheese to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables into the gravy.Serve over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice for a complete meal.