Salisbury Steak Meatballs - recipediaries.com

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a twist on a beloved classic dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. These tender, juicy meatballs are cooked in a savory mushroom gravy, combining the flavors of classic Salisbury steak with the convenience and appeal of meatballs. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. In this article, we’ll walk through the recipe for Salisbury Steak Meatballs, exploring each step to ensure your meal is nothing short of perfect.

What is Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Salisbury steak is a classic American dish that typically features ground beef patties smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. However, this variation takes the dish to new heights by transforming it into meatballs, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. By combining seasoned ground beef with breadcrumbs and a simple egg mixture, you can create meatballs that are juicy and perfectly formed. The meatballs are then simmered in a savory gravy made with mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and beef broth, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Why You’ll Love Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Easy to Make: Salisbury steak meatballs are straightforward and quick to prepare. The entire dish can be ready in about 45 minutes.
Versatile: These meatballs can be served with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, making them the perfect meal for any occasion.
Comfort Food: The rich gravy and savory flavors make this dish feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these delicious meatballs, making them perfect for family dinners.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Ingredients

To make Salisbury Steak Meatballs, you’ll need two components: the meatballs and the gravy. Below is a detailed list of ingredients for each part of the recipe.

For the Meatballs:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef: Ground beef forms the base of the meatballs, providing a rich, hearty flavor.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together and ensure they stay juicy.
1 egg: The egg acts as a binding agent, holding everything together.
1/4 cup milk: Milk adds moisture to the meatballs, making them tender.
1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Onions add flavor and moisture to the meatballs.
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce brings a tangy, savory depth to the meatballs.
1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder enhances the flavor of the meatballs.
1/2 tsp salt: Salt is essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a slight heat to the meatballs.

For the Gravy:

2 tbsp butter: Butter is used to sauté the mushrooms and create a rich base for the gravy.
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms: Mushrooms add a savory, earthy flavor to the gravy.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Flour helps thicken the gravy and gives it a smooth texture.
2 cups beef broth: Beef broth is the main liquid for the gravy, infusing it with a deep, savory flavor.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Just like in the meatballs, Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, tangy depth to the gravy.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and enhances the gravy’s complexity.
Salt and pepper to taste: Season the gravy to your preference for a well-balanced flavor.

How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Making Salisbury Steak Meatballs is simple and rewarding. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delicious dish.

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

Start by preparing the meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients gently until they are just combined. It’s important not to overwork the mixture, as this could result in tough meatballs.

Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to shape it into meatballs. You can make them whatever size you prefer, but typically, golf-ball-sized meatballs work best. Set the meatballs aside and prepare to cook them.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the meatballs. Cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Brown them on all sides for 7-10 minutes, until they are fully cooked. Depending on the size of the meatballs, this may take slightly longer.

Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Don’t discard the juices in the skillet, as they will add flavor to the gravy.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they are softened and browned, about 5 minutes. Mushrooms release moisture as they cook, so this will help to build the base of the gravy.

Next, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. This will help to thicken the gravy. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent the flour from burning.

Gradually whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together and let the mixture come to a simmer. Continue simmering the gravy for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs in the Gravy

Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the gravy. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the gravy. Let the meatballs simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meatballs to fully cook through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are fully cooked and the gravy has thickened, it’s time to serve! Salisbury Steak Meatballs are best served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. The rich, savory gravy pairs perfectly with these sides. Top the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.

Enjoy your comforting and delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs!

Tips for Making the Perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Use lean ground beef: Opt for ground beef that’s at least 80% lean to avoid greasy meatballs while still keeping them flavorful and juicy.
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing the meat can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until combined.
Customize the gravy: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the gravy to your liking. If you prefer a spicier gravy, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Make it ahead of time: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later.

Serving Suggestions

Salisbury Steak Meatballs are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are some great options to consider:

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes makes the perfect base for this hearty dish.
Rice: For a lighter option, serve your meatballs over white or brown rice.
Egg Noodles: Tender egg noodles are an excellent choice to soak up the rich gravy.
Steamed Vegetables: Pair your Salisbury Steak Meatballs with a side of steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that ground turkey tends to be leaner, so you may need to adjust the seasoning to compensate for the difference in flavor.

Can I make Salisbury Steak Meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

What can I use if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
To freeze, allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

With its comforting flavors and tender meatballs, Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or serving a crowd, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and savor the rich, savory flavors that make this meal truly special.