Go Back
Smothered Meatballs: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish
Print Recipe

Smothered Meatballs: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish

Juicy beef meatballs smothered in a rich, creamy onion gravy for a soul-warming meal. Perfect over mashed potatoes or noodles, this family-friendly recipe balances savory depth with comforting simplicity.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: American
Servings: 24 servings
Calories: 420kcal
Author: Samantha Jones

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 large egg, well beaten
  • ¼ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly shredded
  • 3 tablespoons sweet yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 cups sweet yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for gravy)
  • 2 teaspoons kitchen bouquet
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (for gravy)
  • ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (for gravy)
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic, parmesan, finely diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  • Portion mixture into 24 even meatballs and place on prepared baking sheet.
  • Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry meatballs until browned (not fully cooked) and transfer to wires to cool.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté sliced onions until soft. Add flour and cook 2 minutes.
  • Gradually stir in beef broth, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, kitchen bouquet, water, and seasonings. Simmer until gravy thickens.
  • Return meatballs to skillet, gently place them in the gravy, and simmer for 5 minutes until fully cooked.
  • Garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

For tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
To ensure food safety, use a meat thermometer to verify meatballs reach 160°F (71°C).
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.