Simple Baked Meatballs with Rice and Gravy
Try this Simple Baked Meatballs with Rice and Gravy recipe
Try this Simple Baked Meatballs with Rice and Gravy recipe
- Carbohydrate 0.3899 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.007 g
- Fiber 0.056000000834465 g
- Protein 0.7357 g
- Saturated Fat 0.00077 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (7g)
- Sodium 391.02 mg
- Sugar 0.333899999165535 g
- Trans Fat 0.00196 g
- Calories 4 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Spray a 9 x 13" baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, stir together ground meat, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Add rice, and stir.
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Using a medium disher or a tablespoon, evenly measure meatballs and drop into the rice mixture. Arrange in straight lines to be sure they all fit.
- Cover pan with foil, and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil, and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed. (Ground meat should be heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.)
Simple Baked Meatballs with Rice and Gravy: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and preferably something the whole family will enjoy. This Simple Baked Meatballs with Rice and Gravy recipe has become a staple in our household. It's incredibly versatile, forgiving, and always a crowd-pleaser. Forget complicated recipes and expensive takeout; this dish is the epitome of comfort food made simple.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No fancy ingredients or specialized techniques are required. I often find myself adapting it based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I’ll swap ground turkey for beef, or add a handful of frozen peas for extra color and nutrients. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory dish that satisfies everyone around the table. It's a perfect example of how a little creativity can go a long way in the kitchen, especially when time is of the essence.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its make-ahead potential. The meatballs can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, ready to be baked when needed. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when even the simplest tasks can feel overwhelming. I often assemble the entire dish in the morning, pop it in the fridge, and then simply pop it in the oven when I get home. The result is a warm, delicious, and comforting meal, ready in less than an hour.
Beyond its practicality, this recipe is also incredibly budget-friendly. The ingredients are readily available and affordable, making it a perfect choice for families on a tight budget. I frequently use sales and coupons to maximize my savings, and it feels so satisfying to create a delicious and nutritious meal without breaking the bank. It’s truly proof that delicious doesn’t have to be expensive.
Beyond the Basics: Tips and Variations
This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate diced onions, carrots, or bell peppers into the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
- Use different grains: Substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese after baking for an extra creamy gravy.
- Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the meatball mixture for a boost of freshness.
This simple baked meatballs with rice and gravy recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients combined with a dash of love. It's a recipe that will undoubtedly become a cherished part of your family’s culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
