Salisbury Steak Meatballs

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Imagine juicy, tender meatballs drenched in a savory onion gravy, nestled atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. That’s exactly what you get with Salisbury Steak Meatballs—a comforting, hearty dish that blends classic homestyle flavors with a touch of elegance. This isn’t just your average meatball dinner; it’s a satisfying, flavorful experience in every bite.

With the rich, brown gravy seeping into buttery mashed potatoes and each meatball seared to golden perfection, this meal brings warmth to the table. It’s ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a no-fuss Sunday meal. The combination of beefy goodness and smooth, velvety sauce makes it a family favorite that disappears quickly.

Why You’ll Love This Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

These Salisbury Steak Meatballs are full of flavor, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for meal prepping. They deliver all the nostalgic comfort of traditional Salisbury steak, but in a quicker, more convenient meatball form. The gravy is rich and luscious, and the meatballs stay moist thanks to a few clever ingredients. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner idea or something to serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, this dish ticks all the boxes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this recipe effortlessly, having the right kitchen tools is key:

• Mixing Bowls: Use one large bowl to combine your meatball ingredients evenly without overworking the meat.
• Baking Sheet or Skillet: You can bake or sear the meatballs depending on your preference. A cast-iron skillet gives a flavorful crust.
• Tongs or Spatula: Essential for turning the meatballs without breaking them.
• Saucepan or Deep Skillet: Used to simmer the onion gravy and bring everything together.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: Precision ensures balanced flavors, especially in the seasoning and gravy.

Having these tools prepared ahead will streamline your cooking process and keep your kitchen organized.

Preparation Tips

To keep your meatballs moist and flavorful, avoid overmixing the ground beef mixture—just blend until combined. Using fresh onions and garlic rather than powders deepens the flavor. When forming the meatballs, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. For a more developed flavor, sear the meatballs until browned before simmering them in the gravy. Always let the meatballs rest a few minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute and stay locked in. If pairing with mashed potatoes, make them ahead of time and keep them warm to serve immediately with the hot gravy.

Ingredients for this Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and moisture)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp oil (for searing, optional)

For the Onion Gravy:

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp soy sauce (optional, enhances umami)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently using your hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

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Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Using slightly damp hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into equal-sized meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter). You should get around 12 to 14 meatballs, depending on the size.

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Step 3: Sear the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended)

Heat oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes total. They don’t need to be fully cooked—just browned. Remove and set aside.

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Step 4: Cook the Onion Gravy

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced onions. Cook over medium heat until caramelized and soft, about 8–10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

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Step 5: Add the Broth and Simmer

Slowly whisk in the beef broth, followed by Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer and let the gravy thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 6: Simmer the Meatballs in Gravy

Return the seared meatballs to the skillet. Spoon some gravy and onions over each one, cover partially, and let them simmer for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked through and infused with the sauce.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the meatballs before serving. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and comforting meal.

Notes

If you’re short on time, the meatballs can be baked instead of pan-seared—just place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes or until browned and cooked through. To save even more prep time, you can chop the onions and garlic ahead or use a food processor for a quick mince. This recipe is also freezer-friendly; both cooked meatballs and gravy can be frozen separately or together for easy reheating.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overmixing the meat mixture – This can lead to tough, dense meatballs. Mix just until combined.
2. Skipping the browning step – Searing the meatballs adds a lot of flavor and texture. It’s worth the few extra minutes.
3. Using low-fat beef – Choose 80/20 ground beef for a juicy, flavorful result.
4. Not caramelizing the onions properly – Rushing this step will lead to flat-tasting gravy. Take your time.
5. Adding flour without cooking it out – Be sure to cook the flour in the pan for at least a minute before adding the broth to avoid a floury taste.
6. Undercooking the meatballs in the sauce – Let them simmer until fully cooked and tender in the gravy.

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Storage Instructions

Let any leftovers cool completely before storing. Transfer the meatballs and gravy into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and gravy in separate freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 590mg
• Cholesterol: 110mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, but the flavor and texture will be different. Consider adding a little olive oil or butter to maintain moisture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the gravy.

What can I serve with these meatballs besides mashed potatoes?

They pair wonderfully with egg noodles, rice, or even crusty bread.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes. You can shape and refrigerate them a day ahead or freeze them raw for up to 2 months.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. Just make sure your skillet is large enough, or cook in batches.

Why are my meatballs falling apart?

They may lack binding—make sure to use egg and breadcrumbs in the right ratio and don’t skip chilling them if they feel too soft.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

Let it simmer uncovered for longer or add a bit more flour at the beginning.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes! The flavors are rich but mild enough that most kids enjoy it, especially with mashed potatoes.

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Conclusion

Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the perfect comfort food fusion—easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve to guests. With their juicy centers, savory gravy, and classic presentation over mashed potatoes, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting, or just craving a cozy dinner, these meatballs will become a repeat recipe in your kitchen.

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