A light sizzle fills the kitchen as I shape tender meatballs, a delightful precursor to the comforting feast ahead. My recipe for Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes promises a hearty dinner that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a nostalgic nod to home-cooked meals. The harmony of juicy meatballs drenched in rich gravy, paired with creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes, transforms a busy weeknight into a cozy celebration. With just a touch of olive oil and fresh herbs, this dish elevates comfort food to a new level, making it a perfect choice for anyone eager to trade fast food for something truly special. Curious about how to bring this deliciousness to your table? Let’s dive in!

Why choose Salisbury steak meatballs?
Comforting Warmth: This dish wraps you in a cozy blanket of nostalgia, making every bite a trip down memory lane.
Delectable Juiciness: These meatballs, packed with flavor and tenderness, promise to delight your taste buds.
Savory Harmony: The rich gravy harmonizes beautifully with creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes for a memorable dining experience.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, you’ll impress your family without a culinary marathon.
Versatile Options: Customize with your favorite proteins or add extra vegetables for a personalized touch, much like my Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger recipe!
This hearty dinner is not just a meal; it’s an experience, inviting everyone to gather around the table for shared joy.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs Ingredients
Unlock the flavors of comfort food!
For the Meatballs
• Ground Beef – This protein forms the heart of your meatballs; lean ground beef makes for a healthier choice.
• Breadcrumbs – Acts as a binding agent; substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• Egg – Binds ingredients together for that tender meatball texture.
• Onion (finely chopped) – Infuses sweetness and depth into the meatballs.
• Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic notes throughout the dish.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Elevates umami, enriching the overall flavor.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that brighten every bite.
• Dried Thyme – Adds a hint of earthy flavor, enhancing the comfort food experience.
For the Gravy
• Olive Oil – Sauté onions and garlic until beautiful; it brings layers of flavor.
• Beef Broth – The soul of the gravy, lending richness and depth.
• Cornstarch/Water Mixture – Thickens the gravy to a luscious consistency, perfect over meatballs.
For the Mashed Potatoes
• Potatoes (Yukon Gold, peeled and chopped) – Make for a creamy base when mashed, ensuring bliss in every spoonful.
• Milk – Adds a velvety creaminess to your garlic herb mashed potatoes.
• Butter – Enhances richness and smoothness for an indulgent mash.
• Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Brightens the dish with color and fresh flavor.
Every ingredient in these Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes works together to create a comforting dish that’s sure to become a beloved favorite at your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat, which keeps your Salisbury Steak Meatballs tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until the meatballs are browned on the outside and cooked through. A thermometer should read 160°F (70°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
While the meatballs are baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes or until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the gravy that will drench your Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
Step 4: Create the Gravy
Once the onions and garlic are ready, stir in 2 cups of beef broth and an additional tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. After a few minutes, whisk in the cornstarch and water mixture slowly until the gravy thickens, approximately 5 minutes, achieving a luscious consistency perfect for coating the meatballs.
Step 5: Boil and Mash Potatoes
While your gravy is cooking, place peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes along with a couple of cloves of garlic in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain well, ensuring no excess water remains, as this will keep your mashed potatoes creamy.
Step 6: Mix in the Creaminess
Return the drained potatoes and garlic to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher or ricer, then add milk, butter, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Stir until your mashed potatoes are smooth and velvety, making sure to taste and adjust seasoning. This creamy garlic herb mash perfectly complements both the Salisbury Steak Meatballs and the savory gravy.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Once the meatballs are baked and the gravy is thickened, gently add the meatballs to the gravy, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to simmer for a couple of minutes to absorb some of that delicious sauce. Finally, serve the Salisbury Steak Meatballs over the garlic herb mashed potatoes, drizzling with extra gravy for an extra indulgent bite.

What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
The delightful aroma of your hearty dinner has filled the kitchen, and now it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments to complete your meal.
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Steamed Green Beans: Their crispness and vibrant color add freshness while balancing the richness of the meatballs and gravy.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it’s perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luscious gravy, elevating your dining experience.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw offers a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile, keeping the meal light.
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Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness and caramelization when roasted provide a lovely counterpoint to the savory notes of the meatballs.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a fantastic pairing that lifts the meal to a delightful new level of satisfaction.
Enjoying these pairings alongside your Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes will shape your dinner into an unforgettable feast, enveloping you in warmth and comfort.
Expert Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Mix until just combined to keep these Salisbury Steak Meatballs tender and juicy.
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Rich Gravy Twist: For a depth of flavor, consider substituting half of the beef broth with red wine. This adds a luxurious note to the gravy.
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Proper Mashed Potatoes: Ensure that your Yukon Gold potatoes are well-drained before mashing. Excess water can lead to a gluey texture instead of the creamy goodness you desire.
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Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
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Flavorful Upgrades: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for an extra umami boost, or try varying herbs if you’re feeling adventurous!
Salisbury Steak Meatballs Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these comforting Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes for a meal that’s uniquely yours!
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Lean Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still satisfies.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
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Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for a deeper umami burst, enhancing the savory flavor profile. The earthiness of the mushrooms elevates the dish, creating a symphony of taste.
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Herb Swap: Replace fresh parsley with fresh chives or green onions in the mashed potatoes for a delightful twist that refreshes every bite.
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Extra Garlic: For garlic lovers, increase the amount of minced garlic in the meatballs and mashed potatoes for an aromatic punch.
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Creamy Additions: Stir in some cream cheese or sour cream into the mashed potatoes for an ultra-creamy finish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
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Heat It Up: For those who enjoy some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a delightful zing.
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Wine Infusion: Incorporate a splash of red wine into the gravy; the acidity and depth it brings elevates the flavors beautifully. Try it as you drizzle on your creamy mashed potatoes to enchant your taste buds!
Each variation opens the door to new flavors, ensuring that your Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes become a favorite staple for both everyday meals and special gatherings!
Storage Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Refrigeration: Store meatballs, gravy, and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, pack meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container, and keep for up to two months. Mashed potatoes can also be frozen; just ensure they are airtight.
Thawing: To use frozen Salisbury Steak Meatballs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat meatballs in the microwave or stovetop until steaming hot, and if necessary, add a splash of broth to keep the gravy silky.
Make Ahead Options
These Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes are a fantastic meal prep solution! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their flavors and textures. Simply allow the meatballs to cool before placing them in the fridge. For the mashed potatoes, whip them up and refrigerate, but add a splash of milk before reheating to keep them creamy. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the meatballs in the gravy on the stove until warm, and serve them over the freshly whipped mashed potatoes. This approach not only saves you time on busy weeknights but ensures that your meal is just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef for my meatballs?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef, aim for lean options, ideally ground chuck, for a balance of flavor and fat. Look for meat that is bright red in color with minimal dark spots. If you can, feel for firmness; that’s often a sign of quality!
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store your Salisbury Steak Meatballs, gravy, and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. This way, you can enjoy the comforting taste of this dish throughout the week!
Can I freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Yes, you can! Pack the meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they are well sealed to avoid freezer burn. They can last up to two months in the freezer. If freezing mashed potatoes, make sure they are in an airtight container.
What are the best reheating methods?
To reheat your Salisbury Steak Meatballs, thaw them overnight in the fridge if frozen. You can then heat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of beef broth to the gravy to restore its luscious consistency while reheating.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For gluten-free options, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or ground oats. If you’re avoiding beef, try using ground turkey or chicken. Always check for allergies with ingredients, especially Worcestershire sauce, as it can contain gluten and other allergens.
What should I do if my meatballs become dense?
Very good question! The key to keeping your meatballs light is to avoid overmixing the mixture. Combine the ingredients just until they come together — if you see the mixture is starting to get sticky or tough, it’s time to stop! Also, use the right meat-to-breadcrumb ratio for better texture!

Savor Tender Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; bring to a simmer. Whisk in cornstarch mixture until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Boil diced potatoes and garlic in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain well.
- Mash potatoes with a potato masher; stir in milk, butter, salt, pepper, and parsley until smooth.
- Combine meatballs with gravy and simmer briefly. Serve meatballs over mashed potatoes with extra gravy.

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