Can comfort food really be wholesome, easy, and satisfying enough for the whole family—without sacrificing flavor? Homestyle Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes & Veggies answer that with a deliciously juicy yes. These tender meatballs are bathed in rich, savory gravy, paired with creamy mashed potatoes, and served alongside sweet carrots and vibrant peas. It’s a weeknight hero and Sunday dinner favorite wrapped into one, made even better with pantry-staple ingredients and one-pan convenience. Whether you’re cooking for kids or craving nostalgia, this dish brings the love of home-cooked meals to your table.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or beef/pork mix)
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sides:
- 3–4 large carrots, chopped
- 1 cup frozen or fresh green peas
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or prepared)
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 2: Shape & Brown the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown meatballs on all sides until golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in beef broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs
Return the meatballs to the gravy. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until cooked through and the gravy is rich and silky.
Step 5: Cook the Veggies
Meanwhile, boil or steam carrots until tender, then sauté in a little butter or olive oil with a pinch of salt. Cook peas according to package directions or steam until bright green and just tender.
Step 6: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
If making from scratch, boil peeled potatoes until soft, then mash with butter, cream or milk, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.
Variations
- Turkey or Chicken: Swap beef for leaner ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish celiac-friendly.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir a bit of parmesan into the mashed potatoes or meatball mix for an extra savory kick.
Cooking Note
- Always check the internal temp of meatballs (should be 160°F for beef).
- Use low-sodium broth to better control saltiness.
- Fresh herbs elevate the dish—don’t skip the parsley if you have it!
Serving Suggestions
Serve over fluffy mashed potatoes with a ladle of gravy. Pair with roasted carrots and sweet green peas for a full, vibrant plate. Add crusty bread for soaking up extra gravy or a light green salad with vinaigrette to cut the richness.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth to loosen the gravy. You can also freeze meatballs and gravy together for up to 2 months.
Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 490
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 520mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use cauliflower mash instead of potatoes for a low-carb option.
- Skip the roux and thicken gravy with cornstarch slurry for a gluten-free version.
- Replace beef with lentil or mushroom-based meatballs for a plant-forward meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing meatball mixture: leads to dense texture.
- Cooking meatballs on high heat: can burn outside and undercook inside.
- Skipping gravy deglazing: reduces flavor intensity—always scrape the pan!
Conclusion
This recipe for Homestyle Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes & Veggies is your go-to for soul-satisfying meals that are both nourishing and nostalgic. With tender meatballs, creamy potatoes, and vibrant veggies, it checks every comfort food box. Try it tonight and let your kitchen feel like home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance or freeze them raw.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can use vegetable or chicken broth in a pinch, though beef provides the deepest flavor.
How do I keep meatballs juicy?
Soaking breadcrumbs in milk and not overcooking helps retain moisture.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 490 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 14g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 110mg |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Homestyle Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes & Veggies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy meatballs in savory brown gravy with creamy mashed potatoes and hearty veggies—your next comfort food favorite.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef (or beef/pork mix)
1 egg
⅓ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
For the Gravy:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups beef broth
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sides:
3–4 large carrots, chopped
1 cup frozen or fresh green peas
2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or prepared)
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Mix meatball ingredients and shape into 1.5-inch balls.
2. Brown meatballs in olive oil and remove.
3. In same pan, make a roux with butter and flour.
4. Whisk in broth, season, and simmer to thicken.
5. Return meatballs, cover, and cook 10–12 mins.
6. Steam or sauté carrots and cook peas.
7. Prepare mashed potatoes or reheat.
8. Serve meatballs over mashed potatoes with veggies and gravy.
Notes
Make-ahead friendly: prep meatballs up to 24 hours in advance.
Use beef or chicken broth depending on depth of flavor desired.
Fresh herbs like parsley elevate the presentation and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg