If you’re seeking a comforting dinner that brings a taste of classic American cuisine to your table, look no further than Salisbury Steak Meatballs. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of traditional Salisbury steak with the convenience and appeal of meatballs, making it an excellent choice for family-friendly meals. Served with a luscious onion gravy, these meatballs are perfect over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, making them a true comfort food classic. The recipe is not only quick and easy but also allows for customization, ensuring that it can suit any palate. Interestingly, Salisbury steak originated in the late 19th century and was popularized by Dr. James Salisbury, who believed it was a healthy meal option. With this recipe, you can bring that historical comfort into your home kitchen!

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground beef — Choose a blend with some fat for juiciness, preferably 80/20.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs — Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion — Sweet onions add a nice depth of flavor.
  • 1/4 cup milk — Whole milk is preferred, but any milk will work.
  • 1 large egg — This binds the ingredients together for better texture.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder — Fresh minced garlic can be substituted for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce — This ingredient enhances the umami taste of the meat.
  • Salt and pepper to taste — Don’t be shy with seasoning; it’s important for flavor.
• For the Onion Gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons butter — Unsalted butter allows for better control of salt levels.
  • 1 medium onion, sliced — Use yellow or Vidalia onions for sweetness.
  • 2 cups beef broth — Low-sodium options are available to control salt content.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening) — This will help achieve a silky gravy.
  • 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch) — This is needed to mix with the cornstarch for a slurry.
  • Salt and pepper to taste — Adjust based on the flavor of your broth.

Steps / Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in tough meatballs.
2. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Shape the meat mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them in the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.
3. Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C). Look for a deep golden exterior.
4. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside on a plate. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to foam.
5. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden brown. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
6. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a spatula for added flavor. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.
7. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and add it to the simmering gravy. Stir continuously until the gravy thickens, about 2-3 minutes, and becomes glossy.
8. Return the meatballs to the skillet and coat them in the onion gravy. Simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and allow the meatballs to absorb some of the gravy flavor.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Salisbury Steak Meatballs, consider using high-quality ground beef for better flavor. You can also add herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture for added depth. If you make extra meatballs, they freeze well. Simply place uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag for later use. For a quick weeknight dinner, pair your meatballs with prepared mashed potatoes or serve them over egg noodles to soak up the gravy. You can learn more about this topic. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as you go; the right balance can make all the difference!

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding grated cheese to the meatball mixture for a cheesy surprise. For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, which will result in a lighter meal. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs to cater to dietary restrictions or preferences. Experimenting with different gravies, such as mushroom or even a savory red wine reduction, can also add variety to this comforting dish. Check out our related guide for more tips. Don’t hesitate to try adding spices like paprika or cayenne for a little kick!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Salisbury Steak Meatballs over a mound of buttery mashed potatoes, drizzled with the rich onion gravy. A side of steamed vegetables like green beans, carrots, or a fresh salad can add a nice contrast and balance. Pair with a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, or a refreshing iced tea to round out the meal, enhancing the comforting experience of this dish. For an added touch, consider garnishing the meatballs with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for visual appeal.

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Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Recipe by Louna

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4 +

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Calories

350 kcal

A comforting dinner that brings a taste of classic American cuisine to your table, combining the rich, savory flavors of traditional Salisbury steak with the convenience and appeal of meatballs, served with a luscious onion gravy.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)

Directions

1.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.

2.

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Shape the meat mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them in the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary.

3.

Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C).

4.

Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside on a plate. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to foam.

5.

Add the sliced onion to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden brown.

6.

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

7.

If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and add it to the simmering gravy. Stir continuously until the gravy thickens.

8.

Return the meatballs to the skillet and coat them in the onion gravy. Simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 350 kcal