Name: Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Comfort Food Done Right
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (Substitution: Ground turkey for a leaner option); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Substitution: Gluten-free breadcrumbs available); 1 large Egg (Omit for egg-free, use mashed banana as substitute); 1 medium Onion (finely chopped) (Substitute: Shallots for a delicate taste); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available); 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (Substitution: Soy sauce for gluten-free option); 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Black Pepper; 1 tbsp Dried Thyme (Substitute: Dried oregano for a twist); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Substitution: Any cooking oil works well); 2 cups Beef Broth (Substitution: Chicken or vegetable broth); 1 tbsp Cornstarch (Mixed with water to thicken gravy); 2 lb Potatoes (Yukon Gold, peeled and chopped) (Substitution: Russet potatoes for a drier texture); 1/2 cup Milk (Substitution: Cream or non-dairy milk); 4 tbsp Butter (Substitution: Olive oil for dairy-free option); 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped) (Omit for simpler version)

As I stood in my kitchen, the delightful aroma of garlic wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy family dinners of my childhood. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes—a heartwarming dish that promises to embrace you with every bite. These savory meatballs, cloaked in a rich gravy, make for a comforting meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Plus, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend feast with loved ones. Whether you opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or stick to traditional ingredients, this recipe caters to all! So, are you ready to create a dinner that will remind your family of the good old days? Let’s dive in!

Why are Salisbury Steak Meatballs a must-try?

Comforting and familiar, this dish brings the nostalgia of classic home-cooked meals to your table. Hearty meatballs paired with creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes create a satisfying balance of flavors. Customizable with gluten-free options or ingredient swaps, everyone can enjoy this comfort food delight. Plus, time-saving preparation means you’ll have dinner ready in no time, ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. If you’re craving more savory recipes, check out my Garlic Butter Steak or the tasty Sweet Sour Meatballs!

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to prepare these delicious Salisbury steak meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes!

For the Meatballs

Ground Beef – Base protein for meatballs; adds robust flavor and texture. Substitution: Ground turkey for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs – Binds meatballs and retains moisture; essential for that perfect texture. Substitution: Gluten-free breadcrumbs cater to dietary restrictions.
Egg – Works as a binder to hold meatballs together. Omit for egg-free, using mashed banana as a substitute.
Onion (finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth to the meat mixture; elevates flavor. Substitute: Shallots for a more delicate taste.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; keys to that comforting essence. Use garlic powder for convenience if fresh isn’t on hand.
Worcestershire Sauce – Provides umami flavor and acidity, enhancing the meat mixture. Substitution: Soy sauce offers a similar depth; check if gluten-free.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for your desired flavor.
Dried Thyme – Adds herbal notes to the meatballs, enriching the overall profile. Substitute: Dried oregano for a delightful twist.

For the Gravy

Olive Oil – Used for sautéing onions and garlic; adds rich flavor to the gravy. Substitute: Any cooking oil (e.g., vegetable oil) works well.
Beef Broth – Forms the base of the gravy, deepening flavor; crucial for richness. Substitution: Chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Cornstarch (mixed with water) – Thickens the gravy to achieve that perfect consistency. Substitute: Flour or arrowroot powder as alternate thickeners.

For the Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes (Yukon Gold, peeled and chopped) – Essential for fluffy mashed potatoes. Substitute: Russet potatoes for a drier texture, if preferred.
Milk – Creates a creamy consistency in mashed potatoes; enhances richness. Substitute: Cream or non-dairy milk for lactose intolerance.
Butter – Adds flavor and smoothness to your mash; a must for creaminess. Substitute: Olive oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.
Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Offers color and freshness to mashed potatoes; adds a pop of flavor. Omit for a simpler version.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Meatball Mixture
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the meatball mixture for the Salisbury Steak Meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Use your hands to mix gently, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated without overmixing, which can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Form and Bake Meatballs
Once the mixture is combined, shape it into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced to promote even cooking. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. Look for a nice caramelization on the outside to signal they’re ready.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic for Gravy
While the meatballs are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, sauté sliced onions and minced garlic for 3–4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid browning, as you want their sweetness to shine through for the gravy that will coat the Salisbury Steak Meatballs.

Step 4: Create the Gravy Base
Next, add beef broth and additional Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, bringing the mixture to a simmer while scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate the sautéed onion and garlic flavors. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with a bit of water until it’s smooth, then slowly stir it into the simmering gravy to thicken it. Season with salt and pepper to taste, allowing it to bubble gently.

Step 5: Boil Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes
In a pot, bring water to a boil and add peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes, along with a few cloves of garlic for flavor. Cook for about 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot to allow any excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring a fluffy texture for your garlic herb mashed potatoes.

Step 6: Mash and Season Potatoes
Once the potatoes are drained, mash them with milk, butter, and season with salt and pepper to achieve a creamy consistency. The key is to mash thoroughly until smooth, while still being careful to avoid overworking them for a pleasant texture. Mix in some freshly chopped parsley for an aromatic touch that brightens the savory mashed potatoes.

Step 7: Coat Meatballs in Gravy
By now, your meatballs should be perfectly baked. Carefully transfer the hot meatballs into the skillet with gravy and gently toss until they are fully coated. Let the meatballs simmer in the gravy on low heat for a few minutes, allowing them to absorb that rich flavor, creating the delicious experience that is Salisbury Steak Meatballs.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, plate the fluffy garlic herb mashed potatoes and top them with the Salisbury Steak Meatballs, ensuring each serving is drizzled generously with extra gravy. Enjoy this comforting classic as you share it with your loved ones, making dinner a warm and memorable occasion!

What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Pairing this heartwarming dish with complementary sides can elevate your meal to new heights of comfort and satisfaction.

Steamed Broccoli: A splash of green on your plate, steamed broccoli adds a mild crunch that beautifully contrasts the softness of the meatballs and mashed potatoes.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra gravy, garlic bread brings a buttery, savory touch that enhances every bite.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots introduce a lovely sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the meatballs. Their pop of color also brightens the meal.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty Salisbury steak meatballs.
Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw adds an enjoyable texture and zest, cutting through the richness of the gravy-soaked meatballs.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine pairs wonderfully, enhancing the robust flavors of the dish and making it feel extra special.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: For a twist, swap out regular potatoes with creamy mashed sweet potatoes to add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to your meal.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob is an all-time favorite that adds a nostalgic touch and bursts of sweetness to complement the savory dish.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs; customize to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and milk with olive oil and non-dairy milk for creamy, guilt-free mashed potatoes.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs to keep this dish accessible for those avoiding gluten.
Lean Alternative: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing the comforting flavors.
Flavor Twist: Add grated cheese into the meatball mixture, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for an extra cheesy surprise in every bite.

For an exciting flavor boost, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over the dish.

Sweet Potato Mash: Use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold for a sweet and nutritious twist that adds a pop of color to your plate.

If you’re longing for something more vibrant, try pairing the meatballs with roasted vegetables like carrots or broccoli.

Heat Level: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the gravy if you’re in the mood for a little kick; this adds a delightful heat that balances out the rich flavors.
Wine-Infused Gravy: Replace half of the beef broth with red wine for a more robust gravy that amplifies the meatballs’ umami taste.

And if you love meatballs, you might also enjoy experimenting with my recipe for Spinach Garlic Meatballs for an extra flavor adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Salisbury Steak Meatballs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dinner on busy nights! You can prepare the meatballs and place them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply mix the meatball ingredients, shape them, and store them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can make the gravy and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, reheat the gravy on low heat, stirring gently. When ready to serve, simply bake the meatballs and toss them in the warm gravy before plating atop creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes. This strategy saves time in the kitchen and ensures a delicious meal awaits you after a long day!

Expert Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to ensure tenderness; mix just until combined for fluffy meatballs.
Even Spacing: Place meatballs evenly on the baking sheet to ensure they cook uniformly and don’t stick together.
Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, simmer the gravy longer, or enhance with a splash of red wine for richness.
Texture Check: Don’t rush the potato boiling; fork-tender potatoes make for the fluffiest garlic herb mashed potatoes.
Gravy Thickness: Adjust the cornstarch slurry to reach your desired gravy thickness; it should cling without being too gloopy.

How to Store and Freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Fridge: Store cooled Salisbury steak meatballs and gravy in separate airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. This helps in maintaining the flavors and preventing sogginess.

Freezer: Freeze meatballs without gravy for best results. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to freezer bags for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating: To reheat, place the meatballs in a saucepan with a splash of beef broth over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This ensures they remain moist and flavorful.

Meal Prep: Consider making a double batch of Salisbury steak meatballs for quick weeknight dinners. Simply thaw and reheat for a comforting meal in no time!

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe FAQs

What kind of ground beef should I use for the meatballs?
I recommend using ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat) for a juicy and flavorful meatball. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works well too, but it may yield slightly drier results; you can compensate with a bit more moisture like broth or shredded vegetables.

How should I store leftover Salisbury steak meatballs?
Absolutely! Cool the meatballs and gravy before storing them in separate airtight containers. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat them gently to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.

Can I freeze Salisbury steak meatballs? If so, how?
Definitely! For freezing, place the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to two months. When ready to eat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a splash of beef broth for moisture.

What if my meatballs are too dry after baking?
If your meatballs turn out dry, it could be due to overmixing or overcooking. To keep them moist next time, make sure you mix the ingredients gently just until combined. Furthermore, baking them for slightly less time or adding a little more moisture, like beef broth or finely grated vegetables, could help.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! For gluten-free options, simply swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. If anyone at your table has a dairy allergy, substitute the milk and butter in the mashed potatoes with non-dairy options like almond milk and olive oil.

Can I prepare the Salisbury steak meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to shape and bake the meatballs. Alternatively, fully cook and store the meatballs separately from the gravy for quick reheating. This way, you can have a delightful homemade meal ready in no time!