Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Meatballs with Creamy Mushroom Gravy?
It is a comforting dish featuring seasoned ground beef meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy mushroom-based gravy.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
This recipe requires only 4 main ingredients: ground beef, dry onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and water.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 240 calories.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 20 grams of protein in every serving of these meatballs.
What size should the meatballs be?
The meat mixture should be formed into small meatballs that are about 1 inch in diameter.
How do I prepare the meatball mixture?
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and dry onion soup mix by hand until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
How long do the meatballs need to brown?
Brown the meatballs in a frying pan over medium heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, ensuring they are colored on all sides.
Should I drain the fat after browning the meat?
Yes, the instructions specify to carefully pour off any excess fat from the pan once the meatballs are browned.
How is the mushroom gravy made?
The gravy is made by combining one can of cream of mushroom soup with 1 and 3/4 cups of water in the same pan used for browning.
How long should the meatballs simmer in the sauce?
Simmer the meatballs in the gravy, covered, for about 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce thickens and the meat is cooked through.
What are the best side dishes for this recipe?
The meatballs and gravy are best served over a bed of fluffy rice or tender cooked noodles.
What type of ground beef is used?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of ground beef, which should be seasoned with salt and pepper.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef if you prefer a leaner meat option.
What is the total fat content per serving?
There are 15 grams of fat per serving in this dish.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
This dish is relatively low in carbs, containing 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, its simple steps and ability to reheat well make it ideal for family meal prepping.
Can I add extra vegetables to the gravy?
Yes, adding sliced fresh mushrooms or peas during the simmering stage would complement the flavors well.
What kind of soup mix is required?
One envelope of dry onion soup mix is used to season the meat.
Can I use milk instead of water for the gravy?
Yes, replacing the water with milk or heavy cream will result in an even richer and creamier mushroom sauce.
Is this dish considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick and easy recipe suitable for busy weeknights.
Do I need breadcrumbs or eggs to hold the meatballs together?
This specific recipe relies on the ground beef and onion soup mix alone, though you can add a binder if you prefer a softer texture.
How should I store leftover meatballs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What type of cooking pan is recommended?
A large frying pan with a matching lid is recommended for browning and simmering the meatballs.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild, savory flavors of the mushroom gravy and beef make it a popular choice for children.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meatballs first, then place them in a slow cooker with the soup and water on low for 4-6 hours.
Does this recipe contain any fiber?
The nutritional information provided indicates there is no significant fiber content in this dish.
Can I use cream of chicken soup instead?
Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be used as a substitute if you do not have cream of mushroom.
How do I ensure the gravy doesn't get too thin?
Simmering the sauce uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking will help it reduce and thicken to your desired consistency.