I like making these Salisbury steak meatballs when I want a comforting, hearty dish with rich flavors. The tender meatballs simmer in a savory onion gravy that reminds me of a classic homestyle meal, but in a fun and easy-to-serve form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy how this recipe delivers all the classic Salisbury steak flavors in bite-sized portions. The meatballs stay juicy and flavorful, while the gravy adds a deep, satisfying richness. I also appreciate how simple and budget-friendly the ingredients are, making it a great option for everyday cooking. It pairs well with many sides, which makes it very versatile in my kitchen.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ground beef
- breadcrumbs
- egg
- onion (finely chopped)
- garlic
- milk
- Worcestershire sauce
- ketchup
- mustard
- beef broth
- flour
- butter
- salt
- black pepper
Directions
I start by mixing the ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. I combine everything gently until just mixed, then I shape the mixture into small meatballs.
In a large pan, I melt a bit of butter and cook the meatballs until they are browned on all sides. I remove them from the pan and set them aside.
In the same pan, I add a little more butter if needed and sprinkle in flour to create a roux. I cook it briefly, then slowly whisk in the beef broth to form a smooth gravy.
I return the meatballs to the pan and let them simmer in the gravy for about 15–20 minutes until they are fully cooked and the sauce thickens. I stir occasionally to coat the meatballs evenly in the rich onion gravy.
I serve them hot, often over mashed potatoes or alongside rice.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and cooking takes about 25–30 minutes, so the total time is approximately 45 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes mix ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version. If I want extra flavor, I add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy. I also like adding a splash of cream for a richer sauce or fresh herbs like parsley for a brighter finish.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm them gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth if the gravy becomes too thick. I can also reheat them in the microwave, but I prefer the stovetop for better texture.
FAQs
Can I freeze Salisbury steak meatballs?
I freeze them after cooking and cooling, storing them in a sealed container for up to 2 months. I thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I keep the meatballs tender?
I avoid overmixing the meat and include ingredients like milk and breadcrumbs to keep them soft.
Can I make this without breadcrumbs?
I sometimes substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oats.
What can I serve with this dish?
I like serving it with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even steamed vegetables.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
I let it simmer longer or add a small slurry of flour and water if needed.
Conclusion
I find these Salisbury steak meatballs to be a comforting and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The rich gravy and tender meatballs make it a favorite meal that I enjoy serving whenever I want something warm and hearty.
Print
Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Author: Olivia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Tender Salisbury steak meatballs simmered in a rich and savory onion gravy, creating a comforting and hearty homestyle dish.
Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- In a large pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter and cook meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add remaining butter and sprinkle in flour to form a roux. Cook briefly.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth to create a smooth gravy.
- Return meatballs to the pan and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Stir occasionally to coat meatballs evenly with the gravy.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
- Add mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor.
- Use a mix of beef and turkey for a lighter option.
- Add a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
- Adjust gravy thickness by simmering longer or adding a flour slurry.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
