As I stood over the stove, the aroma of sizzling beef and savory herbs filled the kitchen, immediately drawing my family’s attention. There’s something magical about preparing Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes; it transforms a regular weeknight into a comforting dinner experience. Not only does this recipe channel the nostalgia of classic comfort food, but it also offers a delightful twist on traditional recipes, making it a quick and satisfying choice for home chefs who crave homemade goodness. In just under 45 minutes, you'll have an impressive meal that brings everyone to the table. Can you already feel the warmth this dish will add to your kitchen? Let’s dive right into this scrumptious recipe!

Why Are These Meatballs So Irresistible?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting and nostalgic: Succulent Salisbury steak meatballs paired with creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes remind you of family dinners.
Flavor-packed goodness: The rich gravy and fresh herbs elevate each bite, creating a delightful explosion of taste.
Versatile: Customize easily with ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or different herbs to make it your own.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and guests, turning any meal into a special occasion!
Salisbury Steak Meatballs Ingredients
Get ready to create a comforting dish that warms the heart!
For the Meatballs
• 1 lb ground beef – choose a lean variety for juicy, flavorful meatballs.
• ½ cup bread crumbs – these help bind the meatballs and add texture.
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion – for sweetness and a tender bite in every ball.
• 1 large egg – this acts as a binder to keep your meatballs together.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible!
• Salt, to taste – don’t forget to season for enhanced flavor.
• Pepper, to taste – fresh ground is best for a perfect kick.
For the Gravy
• 2 cups beef broth – gives a rich and hearty base for your gravy.
• 2 tablespoon ketchup – this will balance the flavor and add a hint of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – enhances umami and deepens the sauce’s color.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoon water) – use this for thickening the gravy.
For the Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
• 2 lbs potatoes (peeled and cubed) – the star base; use waxy potatoes for creaminess.
• ½ cup milk – for rich creaminess that makes the mash heavenly.
• 2 tablespoon butter – adds a lovely richness to the potatoes.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – infuses flavor into every bite of your mash.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs – like parsley or chives, for a burst of freshness.
• Salt, to taste – essential for the best flavor!
• Pepper, to taste – offers a subtle warmth that complements the dish.
Feel the excitement of crafting your Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes as the delightful scents fill your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of ground beef, ½ cup bread crumbs, ¼ cup finely chopped onion, 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix the ingredients using your hands until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. This will help in keeping your Salisbury steak meatballs tender.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Once the mixture is ready, shape it into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. This should yield approximately 12 meatballs. Place them on a plate and set them aside. Having your meatballs uniform ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy as you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and gently place the meatballs in the skillet once hot. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are browned and develop a delicious crust. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside briefly, letting the residual heat keep them warm.
Step 4: Create the Gravy
In the same skillet, add 2 cups beef broth, 2 tablespoon ketchup, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and the cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoon water, whisking to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to thicken slightly, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This savory gravy is the perfect complement to your Salisbury steak meatballs.
Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs in Gravy
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, immersing them in the rich gravy. Let them cook in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring they are heated through and coated beautifully in the gravy. As they cook, your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering aroma, hinting at the delightful meal ahead!
Step 6: Prepare the Potatoes
While the meatballs simmer, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 lbs of peeled and cubed potatoes, cooking for about 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, ready to be transformed into creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes.
Step 7: Mash the Potatoes
To the drained potatoes, add ½ cup milk, 2 tablespoon butter, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Using a potato masher, mash successfully until the mixture is smooth and creamy, achieving a delightful consistency that perfectly balances with the meatballs.
Step 8: Serve with Love
To plate your dish, create a generous bed of garlic herb mashed potatoes on each plate. Top with the Salisbury steak meatballs, ensuring that some of the luscious gravy spills over the potatoes. This final touch brings warmth and heart to your meal, inviting family and guests to gather around the table and savor every last bite.

Expert Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the meatball ingredients to keep them tender; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Uniform Sizes: Shape meatballs to an even size for consistent cooking. This helps each meatball stay deliciously juicy.
Thicken Gradually: When making the gravy, let it simmer to thicken naturally. If it’s too thin, mix in cornstarch gradually.
Season Generously: Always taste your meatball mixture before cooking to ensure it's well-seasoned. A sprinkle of salt enhances the overall flavor of your Salisbury steak meatballs.
Herb Choices: Fresh herbs add a wonderful brightness to your garlic herb mashed potatoes. Feel free to experiment with your favorites for unique flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can make the garlic herb mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them on the stovetop or microwave before serving, adding a splash of milk for creaminess. When you’re ready to savor this comforting dish, brown the meatballs and simmer them in the gravy as directed for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep your Salisbury steak meatballs fresh and safe to eat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the meatballs in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture.
Sauce Storage: If you have leftover gravy, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stove to serve.
What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
As the comforting aroma fills your home, adding delightful sides can elevate your meal even further.
-
Steamed Green Beans: Fresh green beans bring a crisp texture and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the meatballs effortlessly.
-
Garlicky Sautéed Spinach: This light and healthy side complements the flavors of the dish, creating a lovely contrast with the creamy mashed potatoes.
-
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges and nutty flavor add depth to the meal, enhancing the overall experience of your dinner.
-
Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy slaw provides a refreshing crunch, cutting through the savory meatballs and thick gravy for a delightful combination.
-
Homemade Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory elements, perfect for soaking up that delicious gravy while bringing warmth to your table.
-
Chilled Tomato Salad: A bright and juicy salad can add a refreshing note, balancing the richness of the Salisbury steak meatballs perfectly.
-
Rich Red Wine: A glass of velvety red wine enhances the meal's flavors, inviting a touch of elegance and indulgence to your dining experience.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note! Warm cookies create a nostalgic finish, rounding out the cozy comfort food theme beautifully.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your dish uniquely yours!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute milk and butter in the mashed potatoes with almond or oat milk and vegan butter for a smooth alternative.
-
Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce to the gravy for a flavorful heat that complements the meatballs beautifully.
-
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley or chives for a distinctive flavor profile.
-
Mushroom Madness: Sauté sliced mushrooms and stir them into the gravy for an earthy flavor boost that adds depth to your dish.
-
Cheesy Touch: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese into the garlic herb mashed potatoes for an irresistible cheesy twist.
-
Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based meat substitute like lentils or chickpeas for a hearty, meatless version of Salisbury steak meatballs.
-
Gluten-Free: Swap bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives such as crushed gluten-free crackers or oats for a perfect binding without gluten.
-
Crispy Texture: Before serving, broil the meatballs briefly for 2-3 minutes to create a crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft mashed potatoes.
Each variation opens up a world of delicious possibilities! Which one will you try?

Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mash Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ground beef for these meatballs?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and juiciness, I recommend using lean ground beef—about 80% lean. This gives you a nice balance of fat that keeps your Salisbury Steak Meatballs moist while still allowing those delicious flavors to shine through. Avoid overly fatty cuts, which can make the meatballs greasy.
How should I store leftovers from my Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Very simple! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they're completely cooled before sealing them up to keep them fresh. If you want to keep that deliciousness an even longer time, consider freezing them!
Can I freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs? What’s the best way?
Absolutely! To freeze your meatballs, first allow them to cool completely after cooking. Then, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, which takes about 1-2 hours. Once they're frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can stay good for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet with a splash of beef broth.
What should I do if my gravy isn’t thickening properly?
No problem! If your gravy isn't thickening as you'd like, it might just need a little more cornstarch. Mix another tablespoon of cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of cold water, whisk until smooth, and then stir it into the simmering gravy. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until it thickens. If you find it’s still too thin after that, just repeat the process until you reach that perfect consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! If you're culinary-conscious about allergies or dietary restrictions, note that these Salisbury Steak Meatballs contain dairy and egg. For dairy-free options, you can substitute almond or oat milk in the mashed potatoes. For egg-free meatballs, you can use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water, set aside until gel-like) to help bind the mixture. Always double-check your ingredients for soy or gluten allergies as well, considering the soy sauce in the gravy.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mash
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, along with salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter, yielding approximately 12 meatballs. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil, and brown the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes per side, then remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add beef broth, ketchup, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixed with water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat for 3-4 minutes.
- Return meatballs to skillet, immersing in gravy. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to heat through.
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook peeled and cubed potatoes for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain.
- To the potatoes, add milk, butter, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Mash until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve mashed potatoes on plates, topped with Salisbury steak meatballs and gravy.





Leave a Reply