The Perfect Harmony: Meatballs and Gravy Extravaganza

Step into the world of Italian comfort food with our savory and indulgent Meatballs and Gravy recipe. This classic dish brings together the richness of beef and pork in tender meatballs, paired with a flavorful tomato sauce. Whether you’re creating a family feast or impressing guests with your culinary prowess, this recipe is your ticket to a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

For the Gravy (Tomato Sauce):

• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Meatball Mastery:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Gravy Galore:

4. In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes. Stir in chopped fresh basil and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Place the cooked meatballs back into the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the tomato sauce.
7. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to soak up the savory tomato goodness.

Serve and Savor:

8. Once the meatballs are fully cooked and the flavors have melded, serve them hot over your favorite pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Baked, Not Fried: For a healthier option, bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pecorino for an added twist to the meatball mixture.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the herbaceous profile by adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the tomato sauce.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Meatballs and Gravy

• Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds in the meatball mixture.
• Choose a keto-friendly sweetener to balance the acidity in the tomato sauce.
• Opt for ground pork with a higher fat content for juicier meatballs.

Low-Carb Meatballs and Gravy

• Utilize almond flour or a low-carb binding agent in place of breadcrumbs.
• Incorporate a variety of low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the tomato sauce.
• Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative to pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! Cooked meatballs can be refrigerated for up to two days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat them in the tomato sauce when ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use only beef or pork for the meatballs? Certainly! While the combination of beef and pork adds richness, you can use either one based on your preference.

Q3: Can I use dried herbs in the tomato sauce? Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh, but adjust the quantities as dried herbs are more potent.

Q4: What is the best pasta to serve with Meatballs and Gravy? Classic choices include spaghetti or fettuccine, but feel free to use your favorite pasta or even opt for a low-carb alternative like shirataki noodles.

Q5: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Brown the meatballs in a skillet, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the tomato sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes rival the satisfaction of a perfectly crafted Meatballs and Gravy ensemble. The succulent meatballs, bathed in a robust tomato sauce, create a symphony of flavors that captivates the palate. Whether you embrace the classic recipe or venture into keto or low-carb territory, this dish remains a testament to the timeless joy of a well-prepared meal. So, set the table, savor the aromas, and let Meatballs and Gravy be the star of your next culinary performance.