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 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup milk

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

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty and flavorful comfort food dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, these Salisbury steak meatballs paired with creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes are your new go-to. Juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a savory gravy, combined with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes, create a cozy meal bursting with flavor. The best part? It’s simple to prepare and sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious classic from scratch!

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
Comfort food at its best: Juicy meatballs smothered in rich gravy complemented by velvety mashed potatoes.
Versatile: This recipe is adaptable for gluten-free or low-carb diets with simple swaps.
Homestyle flavor: Made with fresh ingredients for a hearty, nostalgic taste.

3. Ingredient Notes

Choosing quality ingredients makes all the difference. Use ground beef with about 15-20% fat for juicy meatballs. Fresh garlic and herbs like thyme or parsley add layers of flavor, making each bite aromatic. For the creamy mashed potatoes, Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes yield the best texture—fluffy and smooth when mashed. Don’t forget real butter and heavy cream to achieve that luxurious, silky consistency. For added flavor, a splash of dill pickle juice in the gravy adds a tangy kick, but this is optional depending on your taste preference.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this dish effortlessly, consider investing in some handy kitchen tools. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes browning the meatballs quick and even, while a high-quality T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set helps you cook the mashed potatoes smoothly. For stirring and mashing, a good KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer can save time and efforts, giving you perfectly mashed potatoes every time.

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

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef with minced garlic, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, an egg, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs dense. Roll into uniform balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet or use the air fryer for a healthier sear.

Cook the meatballs in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. They should be juicy with a slight crisp on the outside. While they cook, prepare the gravy.

Make the Gravy

In a skillet, melt some butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—this is where your kitchen fills with earthy aroma. Add flour to create a roux, then slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. For a tangy twist, stir in a splash of dill pickle juice. Let it simmer until thickened, and add salt, pepper, and herbs to taste. Return the meatballs to the gravy to simmer for a few minutes, absorbing all those savory flavors.

Prepare the Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Peel and cube the potatoes, then boil until tender—about 15 minutes. Drain well, then transfer to a bowl. Using a stand mixer or potato masher, mash the potatoes until smooth. Mix in warmed heavy cream, softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper, and mash again until silky and fluffy. For an extra smooth texture, use a non-stick cookware set.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Use fresh garlic for maximum aroma and flavor—powdered garlic won’t give the same punch.
Do not overmix your meat mixture; this keeps the meatballs tender.
For a richer gravy, add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce.
When boiling potatoes, start with cold water to ensure even cooking.
Make-ahead tip: assemble and refrigerate meatballs before cooking—they cook perfectly straight from the fridge!

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you need gluten-free options, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs. For a low-carb version, use cauliflower mash instead of potatoes. Vegetarian lovers can swap the beef for plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth for the gravy base. Want a spicy kick? Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or gravy.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the gravy moist. For best results, reheat the mashed potatoes separately to maintain their creamy texture.

9. FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey makes a leaner version of Salisbury steak meatballs. Just be mindful to cook them thoroughly, as turkey is more prone to drying out.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Use the right ratio of binders like eggs and breadcrumbs, and avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Chilling the formed meatballs for 15 minutes before cooking can also help them hold their shape.

What can I serve with this dish?

Aside from mashed potatoes, consider served green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple mixed salad for a complete meal.

10. Conclusion

This easy Salisbury steak meatballs recipe offers comfort, flavor, and simplicity in every bite. The tender meatballs simmered in rich gravy paired with velvety garlic herb mashed potatoes make for a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this dish is sure to satisfy. Happy cooking!

Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes