Salisbury Steak Meatballs: A Comforting Classic

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about a hearty plate of Salisbury steak meatballs. These juicy, flavorful meatballs are smothered in a rich, savory brown gravy and served over creamy mashed potatoes, making them the ultimate comfort food. I love how this dish brings together the best of both worlds—the classic taste of Salisbury steak in a fun, bite-sized form that’s easy to serve and enjoy. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prep idea for the week, these meatballs never disappoint.

What makes Salisbury steak meatballs so special is their deep, meaty flavor, enhanced with a touch of Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and warm spices. The homemade gravy ties everything together with a velvety texture and just the right amount of richness. I find that every bite is packed with nostalgia, reminiscent of the comforting meals I grew up eating. Plus, they pair perfectly with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to buttered egg noodles or even roasted vegetables.

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Why You’ll Love These Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Rich and Hearty: These meatballs are packed with bold flavors, thanks to a blend of beef, onion, and seasonings.
• Easy to Make: No need for fancy techniques—just mix, roll, brown, and simmer in the delicious gravy.
• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will love.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs store well, making them ideal for leftovers and easy reheating.
• Pairs Well with Everything: Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a complete meal.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the best Salisbury steak meatballs, I recommend using 80/20 ground beef—that’s 80% lean meat and 20% fat. This ratio keeps the meatballs juicy and flavorful without being overly greasy. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use 85/15 ground beef, but anything leaner (like 90/10) might result in drier meatballs. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can also mix in some ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that the classic richness of Salisbury steak comes from the beef.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions or simply using what you have on hand, there are plenty of ways to tweak this recipe without sacrificing flavor.

• Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just add extra seasonings for depth.
• Breadcrumbs: If you’re out of breadcrumbs, try using crushed crackers, panko, or even oatmeal for binding.
• Egg Substitute: If you need an egg replacement, a tablespoon of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) works well.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and substitute the milk in the gravy with unsweetened almond or oat milk.
• Gluten-Free: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko and use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy.
• Soy-Free: Skip Worcestershire sauce (which contains soy) and use coconut aminos instead.

With these simple swaps, you can customize Salisbury steak meatballs to suit your needs while keeping all the comforting flavors intact.

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Ingredients for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Ground Beef (80/20) – Provides the rich, meaty base for the meatballs while keeping them juicy.
• Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs together and gives them a tender texture.
• Egg – Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs from falling apart.
• Onion (finely chopped or grated) – Adds moisture and a deep, savory flavor to the meatballs.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Brings a touch of umami and enhances the classic Salisbury steak taste.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a subtle tangy depth to the meatballs and gravy.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Boosts flavor without the need for additional chopping.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Simple seasonings that make all the other flavors pop.

For the Gravy:

• Butter – Helps create a flavorful base for the roux.
• Flour – Thickens the gravy, giving it that rich, velvety consistency.
• Beef Broth – The foundation of the gravy, adding depth and richness.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the umami and gives the gravy a bold, savory kick.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Keeps the gravy flavorful and well-balanced.
• Parsley (for garnish) – Adds a fresh, herby finish to the dish.

With these ingredients, you’ll have tender meatballs smothered in a deliciously rich gravy, perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or noodles.

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Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs tough.

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Step 2: Roll and Shape the Meatballs

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the meat mixture and roll it into uniform meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate while you finish rolling the rest.

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Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once hot, place the meatballs in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since they’ll finish in the gravy. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.

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Step 4: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.

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Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs in Gravy

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are cooked through, garnish with fresh parsley and serve them over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Spoon extra gravy on top and enjoy!

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How Long to Cook Salisbury Steak Meatballs

The total cooking time for these Salisbury steak meatballs depends on the method used:

• Browning on the Stove: About 5-7 minutes to sear the meatballs.
• Simmering in Gravy: Around 10-15 minutes on low heat until fully cooked.
• Oven Method (Alternative): If baking instead of pan-frying, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

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Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Don’t Overmix the Meat – Mixing too much can make the meatballs dense and tough. Gently combine until just mixed.
• Use Fresh Onion Instead of Powder – Grating an onion instead of using powder adds moisture and deeper flavor to the meatballs.
• Brown the Meatballs First – Searing them before simmering locks in juices and gives a rich, caramelized flavor.
• Thicken the Gravy Just Right – If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of beef broth.
• Let the Meatballs Simmer in the Gravy – This step allows them to soak up flavor and become extra tender.
• Taste and Adjust Seasonings – Before serving, check if the gravy needs more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce.

With these simple tricks, your Salisbury steak meatballs will be rich, juicy, and packed with comforting flavors!

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple recipe like Salisbury steak meatballs can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the Meat – This can make the meatballs tough and chewy instead of tender. Mix just until combined.
• Skipping the Browning Step – Searing the meatballs adds depth and a caramelized flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Using Extra-Lean Beef – Fat is key to juicy meatballs. Avoid using beef leaner than 85/15 or mix in a bit of fat if needed.
• Not Letting the Gravy Thicken – If you rush the gravy, it may stay watery. Let it simmer until it reaches a silky consistency.
• Overcrowding the Pan – Give the meatballs space when browning. Too many in one pan will steam instead of sear.
• Skipping the Resting Time – Letting the meatballs sit for a few minutes before serving helps them retain their juiciness.

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What to Serve With Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

These meatballs are rich and flavorful, so pairing them with the right side dishes makes all the difference. Here are eight delicious options:

1. Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate classic pairing—creamy, buttery mashed potatoes soak up the delicious gravy perfectly.

2. Egg Noodles

Soft, buttered egg noodles complement the meatballs and gravy beautifully for a comforting meal.

3. Steamed Rice

White or brown rice provides a neutral base to let the savory flavors of the dish shine.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add color and a slight sweetness that balances the rich meatballs.

5. Buttered Corn

A simple yet delicious side that adds a pop of sweetness and texture to the meal.

6. Garlic Bread

A crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that savory gravy.

7. Cauliflower Mash

For a low-carb alternative, mashed cauliflower is creamy, smooth, and just as satisfying as potatoes.

8. Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish.

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Storage Instructions

Salisbury steak meatballs store well, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store cooled meatballs and gravy in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickens too much.
• Freezer: Place cooked meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating from Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove over low heat. If reheating directly from frozen, add a little broth or water and heat slowly until warmed through.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following nutrition estimates are based on a serving of 5 meatballs with gravy (without sides):

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~22g
• Carbohydrates: ~12g
• Fat: ~24g
• Saturated Fat: ~9g
• Cholesterol: ~90mg
• Sodium: ~650mg
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugar: ~2g

(These values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Salisbury steak meatballs are hearty and satisfying, making them a balanced meal when paired with the right sides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. You can also cook them ahead and reheat them in the gravy.

2. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Absolutely! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then transfer them to the gravy to simmer for extra flavor.

3. What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer longer. If you need a quick fix, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the gravy.

4. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used, but they are leaner, so consider adding a little olive oil or extra Worcestershire sauce to keep them juicy.

5. How do I keep my meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg for binding. Also, avoid overhandling the meat mixture, which can cause it to break apart.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and swap the flour in the gravy for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

7. What should I do if my gravy is too salty?

Add a splash of water, unsalted beef broth, or a bit of cream to balance the saltiness. You can also add a pinch of sugar to mellow the flavors.

8. Can I freeze uncooked meatballs?

Yes! Shape the meatballs and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight or cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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Conclusion

Salisbury steak meatballs are the perfect mix of comfort and flavor, making them a great addition to your meal rotation. Whether you serve them over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, they’re guaranteed to be a family favorite. Save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family so they can enjoy this delicious dish too!

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