Name: Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; For mashed potatoes:; 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup milk; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

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🍽️ Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

1. Introduction

Craving a hearty, comforting dinner that hits all the right notes? These Salisbury steak meatballs are the answer. Juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a savory gravy, served alongside irresistibly creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes, make for a classic comfort food meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors of traditional Salisbury steak with the simplicity of hand-rolled meatballs, perfect for a satisfying family dinner or meal prep. Let’s dive into creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for weeknights when time is short.

Comfort food at its best: Juicy meatballs and silky mashed potatoes create a cozy, satisfying meal.
One-pot gravy: Delicious sauce made from simple pantry ingredients enhances every bite.
Versatile and customizable: Adjust herbs or add vegetables for variety.

3. Ingredient Notes

To achieve the best flavor, choose high-quality ingredients. For the beef, look for ground sirloin or a blend with a bit of fat for juicy meatballs. Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the mashed potatoes — fresh always beats dried for aromatic richness. For the gravy, a good beef broth is essential, so opt for a low-sodium, natural variety if possible. The instant mashed potato flakes or fresh potatoes can be used, but for truly creamy creamy garlic mashed potatoes, fresh Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. High-quality butter and heavy cream will make your mashed potatoes luxuriously smooth and flavorful.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Make your cooking experience seamless with these essential tools:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for cooking meatballs evenly without extra oil, for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures easy browning and non-stick cleanup for your mashed potatoes and gravy.

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — An alternative for grilling or air frying your meatballs if you prefer that texture.

5. How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Preparing the Meatballs

Start by combining ground beef with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, an egg, and favorite herbs such as parsley and thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything gently — overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Shape into 1-1.5 inch rounds. For even cooking, try to keep all meatballs similar in size.

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Once hot, add the meatballs, searing them until golden brown on all sides — about 5-6 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage because they will simmer in the gravy later.

Making the Gravy

In the same skillet, sauté some sliced onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for depth. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan—that’s where rich flavor lives. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then nestle the browned meatballs back into the sauce. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, until meatballs are juicy and cooked through, and the gravy has thickened slightly.

This glossy sauce beautifully coats each meatball, creating a mouthwatering experience. Serve hot alongside your creamy garlic mashed potatoes for a truly comforting dinner.

Making Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

While the meatballs simmer, prepare the mashed potatoes. Peel and cut Yukon Gold potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot. Add minced garlic, butter, and heavy cream. Mash until smooth, then stir in fresh herbs such as parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The result? Silky, flavorful mashed potatoes perfect for soaking up the gravy.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Don’t overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture toughens the meatballs. Mix just until combined.
Use a thermometer: To ensure meatballs are perfectly cooked, internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Let meatballs rest: After browning, brief resting time keeps them juicy.

Herb freshness: Fresh herbs give an aromatic boost—use at the end of cooking for maximum flavor.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed rice cereal. For a healthier twist, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarian versions can be made using plant-based protein crumbles, seasoned and cooked similarly. To cater to dairy allergies, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or dairy-free alternatives.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a microwave, adding a splash of broth or dairy-free milk if needed to keep the gravy and mashed potatoes moist. For longer storage, freeze in portions — thaw and reheat for a quick, comforting meal.

9. FAQ

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before browning. You can also prepare the gravy and mashed potatoes ahead, reheat, and assemble when ready to serve.

What is the best meat to use for Salisbury steak?

Ground sirloin or a beef blend with a bit of fat (15-20%) provides juiciness and flavor. Avoid lean ground beef, which can dry out during cooking.

How do I make sure the gravy isn’t too salty?

Use low-sodium beef broth and taste the gravy before serving. Adjust salt at the end of cooking, and consider adding a touch of sugar or a splash of vinegar if it’s overly salty.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Sautéed mushrooms, peas, or green beans make wonderful additions and enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor profile.

10. Conclusion

This easy dinner recipe of Salisbury steak meatballs paired with creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes offers a delightful combo of savory, tender meat and silky smooth potatoes. Perfect for a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with herbs or add your personal touch to make it truly yours. Happy cooking!

Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes