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 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

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🥩✨ Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that hits all the right notes—savory, creamy, and satisfying—then stick around! This easy salisbury steak meatballs recipe combines tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich gravy with silky, garlic-infused mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect dish to warm up your dinner table and impress your family or guests. The combination of juicy meatballs and velvety potatoes makes for a classic comfort food experience that’s both simple to make and utterly delicious.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes — Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without the hassle.

One-pot comfort food — Cook the meatballs and gravy in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
Versatile and satisfying — Serve with your favorite veggies or a side of crusty bread.
Flavorful and juicy meatballs — Juicy, seasoned meatballs in a savory gravy make this dish truly irresistible.

3. Ingredient Notes

For this salisbury steak meatballs recipe, quality ingredients truly matter. Using high-quality ground beef or a mix of beef and pork will lend the meatballs a tender, juicy texture. Fresh garlic and herbs like parsley or thyme will elevate the flavor with aromatic brightness. When making the creamy garlic mashed potatoes, opting for organic potatoes such as Russets or Yukon Golds will give you that rich, velvety texture that’s essential for comfort food. Don’t forget to use good butter and full-fat cream for maximum richness and flavor. For a healthier twist, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or plant-based cream alternatives, but the classic richness can’t be beat.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this dish easier and more enjoyable, consider investing in some essential kitchen tools. Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics is great for quickly crisping the meatballs if you prefer a slightly crunchy exterior. The T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even cooking and easy cleanup. For preparing side dishes like mashed potatoes efficiently, a quality Philips Pasta Maker or a stand mixer like the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer can be a game-changer. These tools streamline your cooking process and elevate your culinary mastery.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by mixing ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, an egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Shape into evenly sized balls—about 1.5 inches in diameter. When you cook these, look for a golden-brown exterior and juicy interior. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Once browned, set aside.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until translucent and fragrant. Pour in beef broth and a splash of Worcestershire sauce, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer until slightly thickened. Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning gravy over them, and allow everything to simmer together until cooked through and flavorful—about 10 minutes. You’ll notice the gravy deepens in color and aroma, enveloping the meatballs with savory goodness.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

While the gravy simmers, peel and cut russet or Yukon Gold potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water until tender—pierce with a fork and check for softness. Drain well, then mash until smooth. Stir in melted butter, minced garlic, a splash of cream, and chopped herbs. For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The result should be irresistibly silky and fragrant with garlic and herbs.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the meat— Gentle handling prevents tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.

Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Let the mashed potatoes rest—a few minutes after mashing boosts flavor and creaminess.
Adjust gravy thickness—If too thin, simmer longer; if too thick, add a splash of beef broth or cream.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re avoiding beef, turkey or chicken ground meat makes excellent healthier substitutions. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal. To make this dish vegetarian, try veggie-based meatballs made from lentils or mushrooms, complemented by a rich mushroom gravy. For a dairy-free alternative, swap the cream and butter with coconut milk or almond-based products. These modifications make the dish adaptable to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftover salisbury steak meatballs and mashed potatoes store well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot—adding a splash of broth or milk helps maintain the creamy texture. For best results, reheat the meatballs in their gravy to keep them moist and flavorful.

9. FAQ

Can I freeze these meatballs and mashed potatoes?

Yes, both components freeze wonderfully. Store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure not to overmix the meat mixture and use fresh, quality ground meat. Chilling the formed meatballs in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before cooking can also help them hold their shape.

What is the best way to thicken the gravy?

Simmer the gravy until it reduces and thickens naturally. If needed, stir in a slurry of cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with cold water, then cook until thickened.

10. Conclusion

This easy salisbury steak meatballs recipe paired with creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes is a true comfort food classic. It’s a perfect blend of savory, creamy, and tender textures that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this hearty meal any night of the week. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy weekend feast, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Dive into this flavorful journey and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal that warms your soul!

Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes