Classic Southern Meatballs Simmered in Rich Tomato Gravy
Meatballs and Rice is a comforting Southern favorite made with seasoned ground beef meatballs gently simmered in a flavorful tomato gravy. Served over fluffy rice, this hearty meal is simple, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family gatherings.
Featured in Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon, this recipe showcases the Southern tradition of stretching simple pantry ingredients into delicious, home-cooked meals that have been shared across generations.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef (ground)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 onion (chopped)
- 3 Tablespoons parsley (minced)
- 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper
- 3-1/2 cups tomatoes and juice (cooked)
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, eggs, chopped onion, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- In a large skillet, combine the cooked tomatoes and their juice with the red pepper and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering tomato mixture.
- Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
- Thicken the cooking liquid by whisking in flour until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the meatballs to the tomato gravy and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
Closing Summary / Pro Tips
- A hearty Southern comfort meal that’s perfect served over fluffy white rice.
- Simmering the meatballs slowly keeps them tender and flavorful.
- Adjust the thickness of the tomato gravy by adding flour a little at a time.
- Pair with buttered cornbread or a fresh green vegetable for a complete meal.
About the Creator
Ethel Rayson Dixon, a Louisiana native, shares recipes inspired by generations of Southern home cooking. Her cookbook highlights comforting dishes rooted in Black culinary traditions and celebrates the warmth of homemade meals prepared with simple ingredients and care.
Ethel Rayson Dixon | Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon.
Find more amazing recipes like this in the book, available through local booksellers and online retailers.
