Classic Salisbury meatballs are tender, juicy bites made from beef and seasoned just right. They swim in a rich, tasty gravy that makes every meal feel special!
And let’s not forget the creamy mashed potatoes – buttery and smooth, perfect for soaking up that gravy. It’s a real comfort food winner, and I can’t help but go back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef (fat to lean ratio) gives the meatballs great flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work as substitutes, but they may be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: These help hold the meatballs together. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be a great alternative. They’ll add a different texture but still work well!
Beef Broth: This is key for rich gravy. You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Just adjust seasoning as needed because the flavors will vary.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for creamy mashed potatoes. Don’t have those on hand? Try red potatoes; they’ll be creamier, but not as fluffy.
Sour Cream or Cream Cheese: This is optional for the mashed potatoes, but it adds a wonderful creaminess. Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute. It gives the same texture with a bit of tang!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Tender?
Getting meatballs just right can be tricky! The key is to mix the ingredients gently and avoid overmixing. You want everything combined but not packed tight. Here’s how:
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk to keep moisture levels up.
- Mix all ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make meatballs dense.
- Shape them gently and avoid rolling too tightly.
- Cook them on medium heat. Browning on the outside while staying juicy inside is essential.
These tips will help you make the best meatballs for your Salisbury dish. Enjoy!
Classic Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Meatballs and Gravy:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tbsp sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of approximately 1 hour from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into even chunks to ensure they cook uniformly. Place the chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water, adding a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender, roughly 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Now it’s time to add the butter and warm milk, then mash until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For added creaminess, fold in some sour cream or cream cheese, if you like. Keep the mashed potatoes warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk until they have absorbed all the liquid, about 5 minutes. In a larger bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, along with salt and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your meatballs tough. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in size.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 6-8 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this point since they will finish cooking in the gravy. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift any delicious browned bits. Add the Worcestershire sauce, along with salt and pepper to taste, then let it simmer until the gravy thickens, which will take about 5 minutes.
5. Combine Meatballs and Gravy:
Carefully return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them. Lower the heat and cover the skillet, letting the meatballs simmer for another 10 minutes until they are fully cooked through and flavorful.
6. Serve:
To serve, plate a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes on a dish, then top with the Salisbury meatballs and a good amount of rich gravy. If desired, garnish your meal with freshly chopped parsley for a bright touch. Enjoy your heartfelt Classic Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes!
FAQ for Classic Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken for the Meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind they may be drier, so you can add a bit more moisture by increasing the amount of milk or breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store Leftover Salisbury Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or gently on the stove. If the gravy thickens too much during storage, add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy ahead of time; simply refrigerate them separately after cooking. When you’re ready to serve, reheat both on the stovetop, then cook the mashed potatoes fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best texture.
What Can I Serve with Salisbury Meatballs Besides Mashed Potatoes?
If you’re looking for alternatives, consider serving the meatballs over egg noodles, rice, or even a bed of sautéed vegetables. They also pair beautifully with a side salad for a fresh contrast.
