These Salisbury meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor, ready to warm your heart! Served over creamy mashed potatoes, they create a cozy plate perfect for any dinner.
Honestly, who can resist meatballs swimming in a tasty gravy? I can never seem to eat just one! I like to load up my plate with extra mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I often use ground beef for its flavor, mixing in ground pork or veal adds a nice richness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken instead.
Bread Crumbs: If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or even rolled oats. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use ground almonds!
Potatoes: I stick with Russet or Yukon Gold for their creamy texture. If you’re short on time, yellow potatoes also work well. Sweet potatoes are a fun alternative for a twist on the classic!
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient brings umami! You can substitute it with soy sauce for a different flavor or leave it out if you prefer a milder sauce.
How Can I Achieve Tender Meatballs Without Overmixing?
The key to tender meatballs is all in the mixing. After soaking the breadcrumbs in milk, combine them with the other ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Here’s how to keep them light:
- Soak breadcrumbs for moisture and tenderness.
- Mix until just combined, using your hands or a spoon—no need to overwork.
- Shape meatballs firmly but not too tight; a gentle touch helps maintain softness.
Following these tips will ensure you have meatballs that are juicy and full of flavor every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Comforting Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (can mix with ground pork or veal)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, for a total of about 1 hour from start to finish. Perfect for an evening of cozy dining!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes in a mixing bowl. This helps to keep the meatballs tender. Then, add in the ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything until it’s just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough!
2. Form the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1.5 inches in diameter. Once shaped, set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches (to avoid overcrowding) and cook them for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Carefully remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly until it’s golden and fragrant. Gradually whisk in the beef broth while scraping any flavorful bits from the skillet. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine Meatballs with Gravy:
Once the gravy is thickened, return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for another 5 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
While the meatballs are simmering, place your peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain them well.
7. Mash the Potatoes:
In a bowl, mash the drained potatoes with the butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until they are smooth and creamy. You can mix in sour cream or cream cheese if you want them even creamier!
8. Serve:
To serve, spoon a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate, then top with the Salisbury meatballs and drizzle over the rich gravy. Enjoy your warm, comforting meal!
This recipe brings a hearty and cozy dining experience with tender flavorful meatballs in rich gravy paired alongside smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for those chilly evenings!
FAQ for Comforting Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats can be less flavorful, so you might want to add an extra splash of Worcestershire sauce or seasonings to enhance the taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave each component separately or warm them together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes if needed to restore creaminess.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance. Simply shape the meatballs and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to cook, you can proceed with frying and making the gravy according to the recipe.
What Can I Use Instead of Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can substitute it with soy sauce for a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, mix a little balsamic vinegar with soy sauce for a closer match!
