Name: Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for gravy)

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

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dinner that hits all the right notes of savory and creamy, you’re going to love this Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe. Combining tender homemade meatballs with rich, garlic-infused mashed potatoes makes for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This dish effortlessly blends classic flavors with a modern twist, perfect for a family dinner or satisfying weekend treat. The beefy, seasoned meatballs simmer in a savory gravy, creating layered flavors and juicy bites, while the smooth mashed potatoes with garlic and herbs provide a creamy, aromatic bed for the meatballs.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 45 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep time.

Comfort food at its best – hearty, satisfying, and deeply flavorful.
One-pan gravy – made with pantry staples, enriching the dish with umami depth.
Homemade meatballs – customizable with your favorite seasonings and adjustments for dietary needs.

Perfectly creamy mashed potatoes – infused with garlic and fresh herbs for an aromatic finish.

3. Ingredient Notes

The secret to flavorful Salisbury Steak Meatballs lies in choosing high-quality ingredients. Ground beef with a good fat content (around 80/20) ensures juicy, tender meatballs. Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the flavor of the mashed potatoes, while using Yukon Gold potatoes results in a silkier, buttery texture compared to regular Russets. For the gravy, beef broth and Worcestershire sauce add depth, while a splash of cream or milk at the end creates a luscious finish. When shopping, opt for organic or grass-fed beef if available to ensure richer taste and better nutrition.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To achieve the best results with this comfort food classic, having the right tools makes all the difference. For instance, a Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer simplifies baking and roasting, perfect for meatball prep, while a sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for your mashed potatoes and gravy. A good-quality potato masher, like the Cuisinart Stainless Steel Potato Masher, helps create that silky smooth texture. Having a reliable skillet and saucepan, such as the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer, can make the entire process more efficient and enjoyable.

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

Prepare the Meatballs

Start by mixing ground beef with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, an egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently combine everything, then roll into small, uniform meatballs—about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or air fryer tray, and bake until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma of garlic and herbs will fill your kitchen, making the wait worth it.

Make the Gravy

While the meatballs bake, prepare the gravy. In a skillet, sauté diced onions until translucent, then add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water for thickening. Simmer until the gravy is rich and coats the back of a spoon. Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes, soaking up the flavors and becoming tender and juicy.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Meanwhile, peel and chop Yukon Gold potatoes. Boil them in salted water until very tender—around 15 minutes. Drain well and add minced garlic, butter, and a splash of cream. Mash thoroughly until silky smooth, then fold in chopped herbs like parsley or chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The garlic and herbs will infuse the mash with aromatic depth, elevating this simple side dish.

6. Expert Tips for Success

For extra juicy meatballs, avoid overmixing the beef mixture—overhandling can make them dense.
Use a thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety and perfect doneness.
Let the cooked potatoes rest a few minutes before mashing to allow flavors to meld.

Sauté the onions slowly on low heat to bring out their natural sweetness, balancing the savory gravy.
Adjust the consistency of the gravy with more broth or cornstarch slurry as needed—thick gravy makes a more luxurious pairing.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re seeking alternative options, feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meal. For added flavor, mix in sautéed mushrooms or a splash of red wine into the gravy. To make it dairy-free, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and skip the butter in the mashed potatoes, using olive oil instead.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture. The flavor often deepens after resting, making it even more delightful when reheated.

9. FAQ

Can I freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat thoroughly in the oven or on the stove before serving.

What is the best type of potatoes for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they mash into a creamy, buttery texture. Russets are also good if you prefer fluffier mashed potatoes, but Yukon Golds offer a richer flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. These simple swaps keep the dish delicious and suitable for gluten sensitivities.

10. Conclusion

This Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes recipe is the comfort food solution your family will love. Combining juicy, flavorful meatballs with velvety mashed potatoes creates a satisfying, homemade dinner that’s perfect for any night. The process is straightforward, and the result is a luscious, hearty plate filled with warmth and flavor. Once you’ve mastered this dish, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner rotation. Enjoy cooking, and indulge in every comforting bite!

Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes