DI'S HOMEMADE MEATBALLS AND MUSHROOM GRAVY

1 lb. ground beef
1 egg
1/4 cup canned evaporated milk
1/4 cup diced onion or to taste
1 teaspoon seasoning salt or table salt
black pepper to taste
3/4 cup quick cooking oats, crushed saltine crackers or dry bread crumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

Mix all ingredients well and form into bite sized meatballs. In a large skillet over medium high heat, brown meatballs on all sides in a little oil until cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.

Choose one method for making mushroom gravy:

Method 1:

1 can sliced mushrooms, drained, or 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can cream of chicken soup
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

Pour off oil from frying meatballs and place soups and mushrooms in the skillet and heat to boiling on medium heat, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet. Add meatballs, cover and reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes or until heated thoroughly. Milk or water may be added if gravy is too thick for your taste. If using parsley, stir in just before serving or sprinkle over individual servings.

Method 2:

4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups beef or chicken broth
1 can sliced mushrooms or 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt or table salt, or to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

Pour off oil from frying meatballs and add butter to skillet. Over medium heat, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. When butter is melted add flour and stir briskly till well combined. Add milk and broth and whisk briskly to whisk out any lumps. Whisk constantly until gravy comes to a boil and thickens. Boil for another 2 minutes, whisking constantly to keep from sticking and scorching. Reduce heat to a bare simmer and add mushrooms and meatballs. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Stir frequently. A little more milk or water may be added if gravy is too thick to suit your tastes. If using parsley, stir in just before serving or sprinkle over individual servings.

This is great served with cooked rice, noodles or mashed potatoes. Add a fresh salad or another veggie for a satisfying complete meal. 

Yields about 4 servings.