These Salisbury meatballs are easy and delicious, served with creamy mashed potatoes on the side. The meatballs are juicy and full of flavor, perfect for a cozy meal!
When I make this, I always double the meatballs because a few extra for snacking never hurt anyone! Plus, those mashed potatoes are so smooth, you’ll want to eat them by the spoonful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use 80/20 ground beef for meatballs because the fat keeps them juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can also work, though they might be a bit less flavorful.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, but plain works just as well. If you’re gluten-free, swap in crushed gluten-free crackers or oatmeal.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic are a must for depth of flavor. You can use onion powder and garlic powder as substitutes, but fresh truly makes a difference.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to for creamy mashed potatoes. They have a buttery flavor. If they’re not available, Russet potatoes are a fine alternative, just be sure to mash well to avoid lumps.
Milk: Any kind of milk works—whole, skim, or even plant-based milks if you’re dairy-free. I find whole milk makes for the creamiest mashed potatoes.
How Do I Achieve Juicy Meatballs and Perfect Gravy?
Getting the meatballs juicy and the gravy rich is about technique. For the meatballs, be gentle when mixing to avoid tough meat. Keep them about 1 ½ inches wide; this size cooks through nicely.
- Brown the meatballs on medium heat for a good crust; don’t overcrowd the skillet!
- After removing them, use the same skillet to keep all those delicious bits. This builds flavor in the gravy.
- When making the gravy, slowly whisk in the broth to avoid lumps. Let it simmer until it thickens to your liking; it’ll coat the meatballs beautifully!
Easy Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs and Gravy:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive oil)
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk (warm)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes around 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes prepping the meatballs and gravy, and around 15-20 minutes cooking the potatoes while the meatballs simmer. Enjoy this cozy meal with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until everything is combined. Now, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 ½ inches in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, gently add the meatballs and cook them until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. After they’re golden, carefully remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly golden. Then, gradually whisk in the beef broth, ketchup, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer; cook until the gravy thickens up nicely, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Combine Meatballs and Gravy:
Now, return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over them. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through. The sauce will soak in all that meatball flavor!
5. Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
While your meatballs are simmering away, you can make the creamy mashed potatoes! Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook the potatoes until they’re tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Add the butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper. If you’re feeling indulgent, mix in the optional sour cream or cream cheese for an extra flourish of creaminess. Mash everything together until smooth and delicious.
6. Serve:
Plate the creamy mashed potatoes first, then top them with the Salisbury meatballs and drizzle extra gravy on top. Dig in and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal!
This recipe is a wonderful way to bring classic comfort food to your table with ease. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just note that leaner meats might require a little extra seasoning or moisture to keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful.
How Can I Make the Gravy Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, simply mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a little cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the simmering gravy. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I Prepare the Meatballs in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them uncooked. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs and mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to the potatoes if they seem dry.
