This classic meatball casserole is a comforting and easy-to-prepare family meal featuring baked meatballs simmered in a rich, homemade gravy.
Perfect for cozy dinners, this casserole combines juicy meatballs with a flavorful gravy baked until bubbly and golden.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Baking the meatballs in gravy keeps them moist and tender while infusing rich flavor throughout the dish.
- Homemade gravy adds depth and a comforting, savory element unmatched by store-bought sauces.
- This casserole is straightforward to assemble and can be made ahead for stress-free dinners.
Classic Meatball and Gravy Casserole
A comforting meatball casserole baked in rich homemade gravy, perfect for an easy family dinner with tender meatballs and savory sauce.
- Prep time
- 20 minutes
- Cook time
- 50 minutes
- Servings
- 6
- Yield
- One 9×13-inch casserole dish (serves 6)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (about 30 g)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (about 40 g)
- 1/4 cup milk (60 ml)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth (600 ml)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid dense meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Gravy In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in beef broth, soy sauce, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Bake Place the browned meatballs in a single layer in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour the gravy evenly over the meatballs. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the gravy is bubbly.
Helpful Tips
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure meatballs are cooked to 160°F (71°C) for safety.
- If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or a beef-pork mix for the meatballs.
- Rest the casserole 5 minutes after baking before serving for the gravy to thicken slightly.
- For gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Cool leftovers to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat leftovers thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this meatball casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
What can I serve with meatball casserole?
Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or steamed vegetables are excellent sides that complement the rich gravy and meatballs.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
This casserole can be frozen after baking and cooling completely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly.
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