There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a home-cooked meal to wrap you in warmth after a long day. As the sun sets and the cool evening air creeps in, I often find myself craving something hearty and satisfying. Enter Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes—a dish that brings together juicy, savory meatballs and creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes infused with fragrant herbs.
This recipe came to life one evening when I hurriedly gathered ingredients from my pantry, transforming them into a delightful feast that evoked nostalgic memories of family dinners. The meatballs, kissed with Worcestershire sauce and enveloped in a luscious gravy, promise a flavor explosion that will have your loved ones requesting seconds. Paired with velvety mashed potatoes, every bite feels like a warm hug, making it the perfect remedy for your fast-food fatigue. Join me in crafting this comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that can effortlessly elevate your weeknight dinners!
Why you’ll love Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Hearty Comfort: This dish combines the beloved flavors of traditional Salisbury steak into delicious meatballs, ensuring a satisfying meal.
Easy to Make: The straightforward recipe requires just a few steps, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Flavorful Gravy: The homemade gravy enhances the meatballs, adding a rich depth that elevates your dining experience.
Versatile Side: The creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes complement any main dish beautifully—consider serving them alongside Garlic Mashed Potatoes for an even more delightful feast!
Family Favorite: With its hearty portions and delicious flavors, this meal is sure to become a staple in your family gatherings.
Nostalgic Essence: Each bite is reminiscent of classic home-cooked meals, wrapping you in a warm embrace of comfort and familiarity.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- Ground Beef – Provides a juicy texture and savory flavor; feel free to substitute with ground turkey for a lighter choice.
- Breadcrumbs – A binding agent that keeps the meatballs tender; gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for a gluten-free alternative.
- Egg – Acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs maintain their shape.
- Onion (chopped) – Adds natural sweetness and depth to the meatballs.
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses both the meatballs and mashed potatoes with delightful flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Delivers umami richness; opt for a vegan alternative if needed.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Dried Thyme – Provides earthy notes; oregano can be a perfect substitute.
For the Gravy
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing onions to create a luscious gravy base.
- Beef Broth – Forms a rich foundation for the gravy; vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.
- Cornstarch & Water (slurry) – Thickens your gravy to the desired consistency for a perfect coat over meatballs.
For the Mashed Potatoes
- Potatoes (peeled & chopped) – The base for velvety mashed potatoes; Yukon Gold varieties yield the creamiest results.
- Milk – Adds creaminess; lactose-free milk is a suitable alternative.
- Butter – Enriches the mashed potatoes with a silky finish.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped) – A bright touch for flavor and vibrant color.
Dive into making these incredible Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes, and let the comforting aromas fill your kitchen!
How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for baking those delicious meatballs.
- Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir until just mixed without overworking the meat.
- Shape meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. They’ll begin to brown beautifully as they bake.
- Bake meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they achieve a lovely golden-brown color.
- Sauté onions: While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onion and minced garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.
- Make gravy: Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Then, whisk in the cornstarch slurry until the gravy thickens, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook potatoes: Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add chopped potatoes and garlic, cooking until tender. Drain and mash these with milk and butter, adding salt, pepper, and chopped parsley for that fresh flavor.
- Coat meatballs: Remove the meatballs from the oven and coat them in the savory gravy, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve: Dish the rich Salisbury steak meatballs over a generous scoop of garlic herb mashed potatoes, drizzling extra gravy on top to finish.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. This keeps them juicy and ready for a quick reheat.
Freezer: You can freeze meatballs and gravy for up to 2 months. Make sure they are in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Room Temperature: Avoid letting the meatballs sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them into individual meatballs up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. The creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes can also be made ahead; simply prepare them and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain their quality, reheat the meatballs in the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, ensuring they’re heated through. For the mashed potatoes, warm them gently with a splash of milk for the creamiest finish just before serving. Enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Complement your delectable meatballs with sides that balance their rich flavors and add freshness to your plate.
- Steamed Green Beans: Their delicate crunch provides a lovely contrast to the tender meatballs, enhancing the overall dining experience. Toss them in a little olive oil and garlic for extra flavor!
- Roasted Carrots: These sweet, caramelized bites bring a vibrant color and earthy sweetness to the meal, creating a delightful balance with the savory gravy.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, lifting the heaviness of the meat and potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread can dip into the gravy, making every bite a little luxurious and ensuring no sauce goes to waste.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy slaw brings a zesty bite that counteracts the richness of the savory meatballs, providing a satisfying texture contrast.
- Chilled Beverage: Pair your meal with a glass of chilled lemonade or a crisp white wine to refresh your palate between bites, enhancing your overall dining pleasure with every sip.
Variations & Substitutions for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps to make this dish your own!
- Ground Turkey: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner version. You’ll still get the hearty flavors but with less fat.
- Gluten-Free Options: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
- Vegetarian Delight: Try using lentils or mushrooms to create a plant-based version that’s rich in flavor while keeping it hearty.
- Herb Blend: Replace parsley with fresh chives or thyme for a completely different herbaceous note that brightens every bite.
- Creamy Twist: Incorporate cream cheese into the mashed potatoes for a rich, velvety texture and subtle tang. It’s a delicious surprise!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a subtle heat that elevates the overall flavor.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix grated Parmesan into your meatball mix, giving each bite a delightful cheesy richness that pairs beautifully with gravy.
- Mushroom Gravy: Substituting half of the beef broth with sautéed mushrooms will give your gravy a deeper, earthy flavor that’s a match made in heaven!
Expert Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture, as this can lead to dense, heavy meatballs. Stir just until combined for the best texture.
- Best Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy mash that holds flavors well. Steer clear of waxy potatoes, which can lead to a gluey texture.
- Gravy Boost: For added flavor in your gravy, consider incorporating a splash of red wine as it simmers, enhancing the umami profile of your Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on meatballs while baking, as oven variations can affect cooking time. They should be golden-brown and cooked through for optimal juiciness.
- Storage Savvy: To maintain freshness, store leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs and gravy separately in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ground beef for meatballs?
When choosing ground beef, look for 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratios. This fat content ensures a juicy, flavorful meatball without being too fatty. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey is a great substitute, but make sure to add some moisture with broth or additional seasoning.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For best quality, keep the meatballs and gravy in separate containers to prevent sogginess. Make sure to cool them completely before sealing for optimal freshness.
What’s the best way to freeze Salisbury steak meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely. Place each in a separate airtight container or resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What if my gravy is too thin?
If your gravy turns out too thin, don’t worry—this can be fixed! First, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Slowly whisk this mixture into your simmering gravy. Allow it to cook for another couple of minutes until the gravy thickens beautifully. If it’s still too thin, repeat the process gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
Are these meatballs safe for pets?
While Salisbury Steak Meatballs are tasty for humans, they aren’t safe for pets. The inclusion of ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you’re looking to treat your furry friends, consider making a separate batch of pet-friendly meatballs using ground turkey, pumpkin, and oatmeal without any seasonings.
Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes ahead of time! Prepare them, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth and warm them gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the potatoes seem dry, adding butter or sour cream can help restore their creamy texture.
Juicy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mash
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Pot
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound Ground Beef or ground turkey for a lighter choice
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for gluten-free
- 1 large Egg acts as a binder
- 1 medium Onion (chopped) adds natural sweetness
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) infuses flavor
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce or vegan alternative
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme or oregano as a substitute
For the Gravy
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil for sautéing
- 2 cups Beef Broth vegetable broth for vegetarian option
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch mixed with water for slurry
- 1 cup Water for cornstarch slurry
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Potatoes (peeled & chopped) Yukon Gold for creamy texture
- 1/2 cup Milk lactose-free alternative if needed
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) for flavor and color
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir until mixed without overworking.
- Form mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until golden-brown.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté sliced onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing to a simmer. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry until thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- In a pot, boil water and add chopped potatoes and garlic until tender. Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Coat the baked meatballs in the savory gravy.
- Serve meatballs over garlic herb mashed potatoes, drizzling with extra gravy if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
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