These Classic Salisbury Meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor, served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes that you’ll want to dive into! It’s the perfect comfort food for any day.
Honestly, who can resist meatballs and fluffy potatoes? I like to smother my potatoes in gravy and sneak in an extra meatball or two. It’s a family favorite that brings smiles all around! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy outcome. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap for ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that they can dry out more easily, so be cautious while cooking.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but panko can give your meatballs an incredible texture. If gluten is a concern, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even oats for a hearty option.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth. If you prefer less onion flavor, use shallots or shallot powder. You can also sauté the onion beforehand for a milder taste.
Beef Broth: Use beef broth for a richer flavor. You can substitute vegetable broth if you’re aiming for a lighter dish or need to keep it vegetarian, remembering it will change the flavor a bit.
Potatoes: Yukon Golds are my personal favorite for creamy mashed potatoes due to their buttery flavor. However, Russet potatoes also work well. If you’re short on potatoes, cauliflower can make a great low-carb mash!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Fluffy Mashed Potatoes?
Making creamy mashed potatoes can be tricky, but there are a few key steps to follow. Start by choosing the right potatoes; Yukon Gold or Russet are ideal for fluffiness.
- Boil potatoes until fork-tender but not soggy. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain well to remove excess moisture, which can make them gummy.
- Return the potatoes to the pot and mash them while they’re still hot; this helps break them down easily.
- Add warm milk gradually and a generous amount of butter for creaminess. Sour cream adds tang, but it’s optional.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mixing with a hand mixer can whip them too much, leading to a gluey texture, so stick to a manual masher for the best results!
Classic Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Salisbury Sauce/Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 30 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to cook. So get ready to enjoy a delightful 1-hour journey to a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until they’re nice and moistened. Then add the ground beef, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together gently but thoroughly until it’s well combined. Now, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter, then set them aside.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Cook them, turning occasionally, until they’re nicely browned on all sides and cooked through, which should take about 10-12 minutes. When they’re done, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Salisbury Sauce/Gravy:
In the same skillet that you cooked the meatballs, melt the butter over medium heat. If you’re using mushrooms, add them now and sauté until they’re tender, about 4-5 minutes. Next, sprinkle the flour over the melted butter (and mushrooms) and cook while stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure there are no lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, then continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens, which takes about 4-5 minutes.
4. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Now, return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the gravy. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes so the meatballs can soak up those delicious flavors.
5. Prepare Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
While the meatballs are simmering, let’s make those creamy mashed potatoes! Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, which will take about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Then, mash them using a potato masher or fork while adding in the butter, warm milk, and sour cream (if using). Keep mashing until they’re smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
To serve, place a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes on each plate. Top with several Salisbury meatballs and spoon the rich gravy all over everything. If you’d like, you can garnish with some chopped parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy your hearty Classic Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes! Comfort food at its best!
FAQ About Classic Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative, but keep in mind it may be slightly drier than beef. Consider adding a touch more milk or olive oil to the mixture to help retain moisture while cooking.
How Can I Make the Gravy Vegetarian-Friendly?
You can easily make the gravy vegetarian by substituting the beef broth with vegetable broth and omitting the meatballs. For a heartier option, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or lentils for extra texture and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the meatballs and gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. The mashed potatoes can be reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked meatballs and cook them directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.