Every spoonful of these Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes is like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. Juicy beef meatballs, enriched with classic Worcestershire and a hint of ketchup, are lovingly simmered in a rich, velvety gravy that clings to every crevice. This dish hits all the right comfort-food notes: it’s hearty enough to satisfy a ravenous crowd, yet simple enough for a beginner cook to tackle with confidence. With every bite, you’ll experience layers of savory depth—from the browned exterior of the meatballs to the subtle sweet undertones in the gravy, making it the ultimate dinner choice for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend feast.
The real magic unfolds when these tender meatballs meet creamy, garlic-infused mashed potatoes dotted with fresh parsley. The potatoes become a silky canvas, absorbing those meaty juices and transforming into what can only be described as pure comfort-food bliss. Whether you’re serving this for a family gathering or a solo indulgence, the interplay of textures—soft mash against the robust, gravy-coated meatballs—delivers a symphony of flavors that your taste buds will adore. Plus, with a total prep time of just 30 minutes, 45 minutes of cooking, and a 10-minute rest, you’ll have a satisfying, easy recipe that looks and tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SALISBURY STEAK MEATBALLS WITH GARLIC HERB MASHED POTATOES
To create this comforting ensemble, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role. From adding moisture and binding to infusing aroma and flavor, here’s everything you need to build the perfect Salisbury steak meatballs, luscious gravy, and dreamy mashed potatoes.
- Ground beef
Provides the rich, meaty foundation for the meatballs, offering both flavor and juiciness when seared and baked.
- Breadcrumbs
Absorb excess moisture and act as a binder, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape while staying tender.
- Milk
Softens the breadcrumbs and adds a subtle creaminess to the meatball mixture, keeping each bite moist.
- Onion
Contributes a sweet and savory depth when finely chopped, making the meatballs more flavorful.
- Garlic
Infuses both the meatballs and potatoes with fragrant, aromatic notes that elevate the entire dish.
- Worcestershire sauce
Adds tangy umami complexity to the meatballs and gravy, making the flavors more robust.
- Ketchup
Balances the savory components with a touch of sweetness and acidity, enriching both sauces and meatballs.
- Salt and black pepper
Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the meat and potatoes.
- Olive oil
Used for browning the meatballs, creating that golden crust and adding depth to the flavor.
- Butter
Forms the base of the gravy’s roux and adds richness to the mashed potatoes.
- All-purpose flour
Thickens the gravy, giving it a silky consistency that coats the meatballs perfectly.
- Beef broth
Provides the liquid body and savory beefy taste that makes the gravy so addictive.
- Potatoes
When peeled and cubed, they become the creamy backdrop for these meatballs once mashed.
- Unsalted butter
Ensures control over salt levels while contributing a velvety texture to the potatoes.
- Fresh parsley
Brightens the mashed potatoes with a hint of herbal freshness and color.
HOW TO MAKE SALISBURY STEAK MEATBALLS WITH GARLIC HERB MASHED POTATOES
Bringing this dish together is a breeze when you follow each step methodically. You’ll brown the meatballs for texture, create a luscious gravy right in the skillet, and whip up garlic herb mashed potatoes—all culminating in a comforting dinner plate that feels indulgent yet straightforward.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a consistent environment for finishing the meatballs in the gravy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until everything is evenly incorporated and the mixture feels tacky.
3. Roll the mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs, ensuring even cooking time and a consistent bite.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, place the meatballs in a single layer. Brown on all sides, about 5 minutes, turning carefully with tongs. Remove browned meatballs and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute until it’s golden and fragrant.
6. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Continue whisking to break up any lumps, then simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy has thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Return the meatballs to the skillet, spoon the gravy over them, and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the gravy is bubbling.
8. While the meatballs finish in the oven, place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
9. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, and minced garlic. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash until smooth and creamy.
10. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve by spooning a generous layer of garlic herb mashed potatoes onto each plate, topping with the Salisbury steak meatballs, and ladling extra gravy over everything.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SALISBURY STEAK MEATBALLS WITH GARLIC HERB MASHED POTATOES
When it comes to serving this dish, the goal is to highlight its comforting qualities while adding a few visual and textural contrasts. Whether you’re plating for a casual family dinner or a cozy date night, presentation and complementary sides can elevate this meal even further.
- Layered plating: Start with a bed of mashed potatoes in the center of a warm plate, create a slight well, and nestle the meatballs on top. Spoon extra gravy around the edges so every bite of potato picks up that delicious sauce.
- Fresh garnish: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or a light dusting of chopped chives over the top. This not only adds a pop of color but also bright herbal notes that balance the richness.
- Vegetable accompaniments: Serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted carrots to introduce crunch and sweetness. The vibrant veggies provide a beautiful contrast in both color and texture.
- Dinner rolls or crusty bread: Offer slices of buttery dinner rolls or toasted baguette for sopping up every last drop of gravy. A buttery bread accompaniment makes the meal feel extra indulgent.
HOW TO STORE SALISBURY STEAK MEATBALLS WITH GARLIC HERB MASHED POTATOES
After enjoying this hearty comfort food, you’ll likely have leftovers that deserve to be saved for later. Proper storage ensures the meatballs stay moist and the mashed potatoes retain their creamy texture without becoming grainy or dry.
Leftover portions can be cooled slightly at room temperature for up to 30 minutes, then transferred to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to three days, ensuring the gravy fully covers the meatballs to prevent drying. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or milk to restore moisture and heat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Refrigeration: Place cooled leftovers in a sealed container and store on the middle shelf of your fridge, where the temperature is most consistent. Use within 3 days for best taste.
- Freezing: For longer storage, arrange meatballs and mashed potatoes separately on a baking sheet to pre-freeze for 1–2 hours. Transfer into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thawing and reheating: Thaw frozen components overnight in the fridge. Reheat meatballs with gravy in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Warm mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stove, stirring in a bit of milk or butter to refresh the creaminess.
- Reviving texture: If mashed potatoes become slightly dry when reheated, whisk in extra butter, milk, or a dollop of sour cream until they return to a velvety consistency.
CONCLUSION
We’ve covered everything you need to create a soul-satisfying meal that’s perfect for any dinner occasion—from the juicy Salisbury steak meatballs bathed in savory gravy to the creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of sauce. This recipe blends beginner-friendly techniques with classic comfort-food flavors, making it an ideal choice whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself to a cozy night in. Don’t forget that you can easily print this article or save it in your digital recipe box to revisit whenever you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal. Below, you’ll also find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions about ingredient swaps, make-ahead tips, and more.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Feel free to leave your comments, ask any questions, or share your own twists on these Salisbury steak meatballs and garlic herb mashed potatoes. Your feedback helps make this kitchen community so vibrant and ensures everyone can enjoy the ultimate comfort dinner. Whether you’ve seasoned the gravy with a splash of red wine, added extra herbs to the mash, or found a new way to plate it, your insights could inspire the next home cook to fall in love with this classic pairing. Enjoy every bite!
Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Description
Savory meatballs simmered in rich gravy served alongside creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic and fresh herbs make for a hearty meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
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Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
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In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
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In the same skillet, prepare the gravy. Melt the butter, then stir in the flour. Cook for about 1 minute until golden.
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Gradually whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
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Return the meatballs to the skillet, spoon the gravy over them, and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
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While the meatballs are in the oven, prepare the garlic herb mashed potatoes. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
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Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, and minced garlic. Mash the potatoes until smooth.
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Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve the meatballs over the mashed potatoes with a generous spoonful of gravy.
Note
- This dish can be made ahead by preparing the meatballs and gravy, then reheating them when ready to serve.
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the gravy.
- The mashed potatoes can be jazzed up with additional herbs such as thyme or rosemary.
- This meal pairs well with steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a complete dinner.
- To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
