Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
- While meatballs bake, make the sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour, cook 1-2 minutes until lightly browned (roux).
- Slowly whisk in beef broth, breaking up lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and simmering.
- Add baked meatballs to the sauce. Gently stir to coat, simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley. Enjoy on their own, over mashed potatoes, or with rice!
Keto & Low-Carb Variations
Adapting this recipe for keto or low-carb diets is easy:
- Replace bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Use low-carb Worcestershire sauce (or omit).
- Thicken the sauce with xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener instead of flour.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Use lean ground beef to avoid greasy meatballs.
- Finely chop onion and mince garlic for a smoother texture.
- Let meatballs cool slightly before adding to sauce to prevent them from falling apart.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
These smothered meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The delicious combination of flavorful meatballs and rich sauce is irresistible. Try it – you won’t be disappointed!
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare meatballs up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Make the sauce and heat when ready to serve.
Can I freeze the smothered meatballs?
Yes! Freeze for up to 3 months. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly.