Beef Meatballs in Mushroom Gravy
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with these tender beef meatballs drenched in a rich, velvety mushroom gravy, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean) for juiciness
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternatives
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a flavor boost
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced adds aromatic depth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mushroom Gravy
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced preferably cremini or button
- 2 tablespoons butter for richness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
- 1 cup beef broth low-sodium preferred
- 1 cup heavy cream or a lighter alternative
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce adds umami
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and set aside.
Cooking the Meatballs
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add meatballs in batches and cook for about 8-10 minutes until browned on all sides.
- Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
Sautéing the Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, add butter and the chopped shallot. Sauté until the shallots are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown, approximately 5 minutes.
Preparing the Gravy
- Once the mushrooms are ready, add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those flavorful browned bits.
Thickening the Gravy
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the gravy and stir continuously until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Combining and Serving
- Return the meatballs to the pan and simmer everything together for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Toss gently to coat the meatballs in the rich mushroom gravy.
Notes
For healthier alternatives, consider using lean ground turkey, Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, or adding vegetables like spinach for added nutrients. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; freeze for longer storage.