As I stood in my kitchen, the savory aroma of baked meatballs filled the air, instantly transporting me back to family dinners at my childhood home. Today, I’m thrilled to share my beloved Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes, a comforting family-friendly main course that combines succulent meatballs with creamy, garlic-infused mashed potatoes. This dish not only delivers a satisfying meal that can be prepped in under an hour, but it also brings a warm, nostalgic touch to your dinner table—perfect for gathering loved ones. Whether you’re eager to rekindle fond memories or simply looking to ditch fast food for something homemade and nourishing, this recipe has you covered. Are you ready to create some delicious memories?

Why will you love these meatballs?

Comforting, Nostalgic Flavor: This dish takes you back to family dinners, with rich meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes that evoke warm memories.
Easy Preparation: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave homemade goodness.
Savory Gravy Delight: The homemade gravy elevates these meatballs, making them irresistible and great for drizzling over your mashed potatoes.
Versatile Meal: Pair it with fresh green salads or steamed veggies for a balanced meal, just like with my Garlic Butter Potatoes for a delightful side.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish is sure to impress at the dinner table.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Ingredients

• Discover the essential components for delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes.

For the Meatballs

Ground Beef – Provides the main protein and savory flavor. Substitution: Can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs – Adds structure and texture to the meatballs. Note: Use panko for a crunchier texture if desired.
Milk – Keeps the meatballs moist and tender. Note: Alternatively, use non-dairy milk if needed.
Onion – Contributes sweetness and depth of flavor. Preparation: Finely chop for even distribution in meatballs.
Garlic (minced) – Adds robust aroma and taste. Tip: Fresh garlic gives a stronger flavor compared to powdered.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive mixture. Note: Can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor. Note: Soy sauce can be a substitute but offers different flavor dynamics.
Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasonings for flavor enhancement. Tip: Adjust to taste, keeping in mind other salty ingredients.
Dried Parsley, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder – Add layers of flavor. Substitution: Fresh herbs can be used if available.

For the Gravy

Beef Broth – Essential for the gravy, brings depth to the dish. Substitution: Vegetable broth for a lighter option or to make it vegetarian.
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the gravy. Note: Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
Soy Sauce – Adds a rich color and flavor to the gravy. Optional: Omit for a lighter gravy.
Dijon Mustard – Gives tang to the gravy. Note: Yellow mustard can replace it for a milder taste.

For the Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes (peeled and chopped) – Base for creamy mashed potatoes. Tip: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing.
Garlic (for mashed potatoes) – Enhances flavor of mashed potatoes. Tip: Can roast garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Butter – Provides rich creaminess to the mashed potatoes. Substitution: Use olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Milk (for mashed potatoes) – Adds creaminess and smooth texture. Tip: Adjust for desired consistency.
Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Freshens and brightens the dish. Note: Optional; can omit if unavailable.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a properly heated environment for the Salisbury Steak Meatballs to cook evenly and develop a lovely golden crust. While the oven is warming up, you can prepare your meatball mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, dried parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the mixture; this helps to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Once your mixture is ready, take small portions and roll them into 1.5-inch meatballs using the palms of your hands. This step creates uniformly sized meatballs that will cook evenly. Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for approximately 20 minutes. They should be firm to the touch and browned on the outside when they’re fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

Step 5: Cook the Potatoes
While the meatballs are baking, fill a large saucepan with water, add the chopped potatoes, and bring to a boil over high heat. Allow the potatoes to cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Once done, carefully drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan to keep them warm.

Step 6: Mash the Potatoes
To the drained potatoes, add the minced garlic, butter, and milk. Use a potato masher to combine these ingredients, mashing until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Once blended, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper for the perfect flavor in your garlic herb mashed potatoes.

Step 7: Prepare the Gravy
In a large frying pan, heat the flour over medium heat for about 1 minute, stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Once the mixture thickens, add the soy sauce and Dijon mustard, continuing to simmer for another 5 minutes until you’ve achieved a rich, thick gravy.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve
Once both the Salisbury Steak Meatballs and gravy are ready, coat the baked meatballs in the prepared gravy to enhance their flavor. Serve these delightful meatballs alongside a generous portion of garlic herb mashed potatoes, drizzling extra gravy over the top for a comforting finish that your family will love.

Expert Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Sauté Onions First: Cooking the onions and garlic before adding them to the meatball mixture enhances their flavors and gives a more developed taste.
Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when mixing the meatball ingredients to maintain tenderness; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Monitor Bake Time: Keep an eye on the meatballs as they bake; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety and juiciness.
Perfect Mashed Potatoes: For ultra-creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes, ensure potatoes are well-drained and use warm milk and butter for blending.
Thicken Gravy Right: If the gravy isn’t thickening, continue to simmer it a little longer while stirring; this helps concentrate the flavors of your Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
Store with Care: Leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days, ensuring you enjoy every last bite!

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Variations

Feel free to play around with these ideas to make the dish your own and ignite new flavors!

Lean Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, yet satisfying option. This change doesn’t compromise flavor and offers a healthier twist.
Crunchy Texture: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an extra crunch in your meatballs. The airy texture will enhance each bite!
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out regular milk for almond milk or any non-dairy alternative to keep your mashed potatoes creamy without dairy. It’s a subtle change that keeps the warmth intact.
Flavor Bombs: Introduce smoked paprika or a hint of chili powder to the meatball mixture for a kick of flavor. These spices will elevate the taste profile in a wonderful way.
Veggie Boost: Fold in finely chopped spinach or grated carrots into the meatball mixture for added nutrition that’s hardly noticeable but oh-so-delicious! It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies.
Hearty Gravy: Add diced mushrooms to the gravy while it simmers for an earthy flavor enhancement. This will deepen the umami taste, making it a true comfort experience!
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate grated parmesan or mozzarella into the meatball mixture for an indulgent cheesy surprise. Melty goodness anyone?
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried herbs to breathe new life into the flavor profile of your dish. This can add a delightful freshness to your dinner table.

If you’re looking for side dishes, pairing with some of my Creamy Garlic Sauce Potatoes or serving with a refreshing salad would perfectly complement this nostalgic meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes are perfect for making ahead of time, allowing for stress-free meal prep on busy evenings! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance—just form them, place them on a baking sheet, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. The garlic herb mashed potatoes can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just remember to add a splash of milk when reheating for a creamy texture. To finish, simply bake the prepared meatballs and reheat the mashed potatoes before serving, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Satisfy your craving for a complete meal with sides that beautifully complement the hearty flavors of Salisbury steak meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes.

Steamed Green Beans: Crisp and fresh, these green beans provide a vibrant contrast to the rich meatballs, adding a delightful crunch to your plate. Their natural sweetness pairs harmoniously with garlic notes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and lightly caramelized, roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor profile that enhances the savory essence of the dish. Plus, their tender texture creates a satisfying mouthfeel.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to this hearty meal. The crunch from the greens and the acidity of the dressing cleanse the palate beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Crusty, warm garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every drop of gravy. Its crispy exterior and fluffy inside make for a deliciously indulgent addition, tucked into this comforting dinner.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, macaroni and cheese adds an extra layer of comfort to your meal. The richness of the cheese complements the savory meatballs, making this pairing a family favorite.
Red Wine: A glass of smooth Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon effortlessly complements the dish’s rich flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience with its deep fruit notes.

Elevate your dinner with these delightful pairings and savor every bite!

How to Store and Freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Fridge: Store leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will maintain their flavor and texture while making reheating easy and convenient.

Freezer: To freeze the meatballs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, microwave the meatballs for 2-3 minutes or warm them on the stovetop in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep them moist.

Airtight Sealing: For best results, ensure the container or bag is airtight to prevent freezer burn, preserving the delicious flavor of your Salisbury Steak Meatballs.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ground beef is fresh?
Look for bright red color without any greyish patches. Fresh ground beef should be firm to the touch and have a slight, meaty aroma. Avoid any packages with dark spots, as this indicates spoilage.

How do I store leftovers?
Place leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and makes reheating a breeze!

Can I freeze these meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
If the gravy turns out too thick, simply whisk in a little more beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Keep stirring over low heat to fully incorporate the liquid, ensuring a smooth texture!

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! For those with dietary restrictions, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make the meatballs gluten-free, and choose non-dairy milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Also, check Worcestershire sauce labels for fish sauce, as some brands use it.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Simply thaw overnight if frozen before baking as directed. Making them ahead saves time for busy weeknights while keeping the homemade charm intact. Enjoy your cooking adventure!