Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe
If you’re longing for cozy, stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, look no further than Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes. This dish is pure dinnertime bliss: juicy, savory meatballs nestled in luscious onion gravy, all served over creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a chilly Sunday, this meal brings everyone to the table with smiles, and you’ll love how effortlessly it comes together with just a few simple pantry staples.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes plays a starring role. Simple, familiar items come together to create layers of flavor and creamy, savory comfort you’ll crave again and again!
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose an 80/20 blend for juicy, flavorful meatballs that hold their shape.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs and keep them tender, not tough.
- 1 egg: Acts as the glue that holds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Adds moisture so the meatballs stay juicy even after simmering in gravy.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Just a splash brings big, beefy depth to both meatballs and gravy.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a mellow, savory note—no chopping required!
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: For a foundation of oniony flavor straight in the meat mixture.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Don’t skimp—they wake up every other flavor in the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the meatballs so they get a gorgeous golden crust.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced: Sweet, caramelized onions become the backbone of that irresistible gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth: Rich, robust, and essential for the classic Salisbury experience.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: The simple secret to a silky, glossy gravy.
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The classic choice for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes.
- 4 tablespoons butter: There’s no substitute for the richness that real butter delivers.
- ½ cup milk: Brings everything together for mashed potatoes that are perfectly smooth.
- Salt and pepper to taste (for potatoes): Essential for letting that buttery potato flavor shine!
How to Make Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix only until just combined—a light hand keeps your meatballs juicy and tender. Form the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball and set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let them develop a deep, golden crust on each side—this not only adds flavor but also locks in their juiciness. Once browned all over, remove the meatballs and set them aside (they’ll finish cooking in the gravy).
Step 3: Build the Onion Gravy
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean—the browned bits add flavor!), toss in the sliced onions. Sauté them until they turn soft, fragrant, and golden. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any fond from the bottom, then slowly add the cornstarch slurry. Simmer the mixture, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens and become glossy and irresistible.
Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in Gravy
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the rich onion gravy. Let them gently simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they’re cooked through but still beautifully moist. The gravy and meatballs will infuse with each other’s flavors, making every bite a delight.
Step 5: Make Fluffy Mashed Potatoes
While the meatballs bubble in their sauce, add your cubed russet potatoes to a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain thoroughly, then mash the potatoes with the butter and milk until they’re cloud-like and smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper for creamy potatoes that are as comforting as a warm hug.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon a generous pile of mashed potatoes onto each plate, nestle a few Salisbury meatballs on top, and ladle over a hearty scoop of onion gravy. Gather your friends or family and watch plates get scraped clean—Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes are a true crowd-pleaser!
How to Serve Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes
Garnishes
For that extra pop of flavor and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over your Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes. A little bit of cracked black pepper or a dusting of smoked paprika can make everything look and taste even more special. If you love a bit of tang, a spoonful of prepared horseradish alongside is classic.
Side Dishes
While this dish is filling on its own, a bright side salad with vinaigrette or some steamed green beans offers freshness to cut through the richness. Warm dinner rolls or soft white bread are perfect for soaking up every drop of that gorgeous gravy. If you’re going all out, roasted carrots or glazed pearl onions add a sweet counterpoint to the savory main event!
Creative Ways to Present
Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes shine whether piled high on a classic plate or served family-style on a big platter. For a dinner party, try plating them in elegant individual bowls, finishing each with extra gravy and a delicate garnish. Or for a fun twist, serve them in mini cast-iron skillets or dishes for cozy, restaurant-style flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), simply let everything cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Store the meatballs, gravy, and mashed potatoes separately in the refrigerator; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes an ideal make-ahead dinner.
Freezing
Both the meatballs in gravy and the mashed potatoes freeze surprisingly well. Spread the meatballs and gravy in a shallow, freezer-safe dish, and spoon mashed potatoes into separate containers. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and taste.
Reheating
Warm the gravy and meatballs in a covered skillet over gentle heat until hot and bubbly, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth if the sauce is too thick. Reheat mashed potatoes in the microwave or over low heat in a saucepan, stirring in a little extra butter or milk to bring back their creamy texture. Enjoy a meal that tastes just as wonderful as day one!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a delicious, lighter version of Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes. The seasonings and gravy ensure you won’t lose any flavor, just a different twist on a classic.
What’s the secret to smooth, creamy mashed potatoes?
Truly creamy mashed potatoes start with starchy russets, a generous amount of butter and milk, and a good mashing tool. For extra smoothness, try a potato ricer or use heavy cream in place of milk for ultra-decadence.
Can I add veggies to the gravy?
Certainly! Sliced mushrooms are a fantastic addition, adding earthy flavor and heartiness to the onion gravy. You can also add peas or carrots if you want to sneak in a bit more color and nutrition.
How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?
Mix gently and only until the ingredients are combined, then let the formed meatballs rest for 5–10 minutes before browning. This helps them hold their shape and stay juicy, especially when simmering in the gravy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Store everything in individual portions and simply reheat for an effortless, comforting lunch or dinner any day.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a big, warm hug, give Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes a spot in your dinner rotation. It’s deeply satisfying, totally crowd-pleasing, and comes together with almost magical ease. Gather your loved ones, serve up generous portions, and watch this classic comfort food disappear!
Print
Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these irresistible Salisbury meatballs served over creamy mashed potatoes and smothered in a rich onion gravy. This classic dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For the mashed potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs. Brown in olive oil and set aside.
- Make the gravy: Sauté onions in the skillet. Add beef broth and simmer. Thicken with cornstarch slurry. Return meatballs to the skillet and cook through.
- Cook the potatoes: Boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Plate mashed potatoes, top with meatballs, and pour over the onion gravy.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor.
- For creamier potatoes, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
