A comforting, hearty classic that never disappoints. These tender, juicy meatballs are packed with flavor and simmered in a rich, savory onion gravy that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or even cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.
Quick Description
These Smothered Meatballs are soft and flavorful on the inside with a beautifully browned exterior, then finished in a homemade onion gravy that’s deeply savory and satisfying. It’s pure comfort food — cozy, filling, and family-friendly.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Meatballs
- 1½ lbs ground beef (or beef & pork mix)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp milk or cream
For the Onion Gravy
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
How to Make Smothered Meatballs with Onion Gravy
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, celery, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and milk.
Mix gently until just combined — do not overmix.
2. Form the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1½–2 inches in size. Set aside.
3. Brown the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a little oil.
Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 6–8 minutes total).
They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the Onions
In the same skillet, melt butter.
Add sliced onions and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized.
5. Make the Gravy
Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir for 1 minute.
Slowly pour in beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
6. Smother the Meatballs
Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
Cover
