✔ 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness) 🥩
✔ ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) 🍞
✔ 1 egg 🥚
✔ 1 small onion (finely diced or grated) 🧅
✔ 2 cloves garlic (minced) 🧄
✔ 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
✔ 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
✔ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✔ ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
✔ ½ teaspoon dried thyme 🌿
✔ 2 tablespoons oil (for frying) 🛢️
For the Mushroom Gravy:
✔ 2 tablespoons butter 🧈
✔ 1 small onion (sliced thinly) 🧅
✔ 8 oz mushrooms (sliced, cremini or button) 🍄
✔ 2 cloves garlic (minced) 🧄
✔ 2 cups beef broth 🍖
✔ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
✔ 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
✔ ½ teaspoon salt & black pepper
✔ 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water, for thickening)
For Serving:
✔ Mashed potatoes or white rice 🍚🥔
✔ Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional) 🌿
✅ Optional Add-ins:
🔹 Red pepper flakes for a little heat 🌶️
🔹 Caramelized onions for extra depth
🔹 Heavy cream (2 tablespoons) for a richer gravy
