If you’re craving a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from your favorite cozy diner, you have to try this Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe. It perfectly combines tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes that are smooth enough to melt in your mouth. Every bite bursts with classic flavors and textures that make this dish not just dinner but a delightful experience you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the flavors, textures, and colors that make this Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe truly unforgettable. From the savory ground beef to the creamy potatoes, every component brings something special to the table.
- 1 lb ground beef (80–85% lean): The hearty base that makes your meatballs juicy yet firm enough to hold together perfectly.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure and softness to the meatballs, keeping them tender inside.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the meatball mixture together.
- 1 small onion, finely minced: Infuses the meat mixture with subtle sweet and savory notes.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides that irresistible punch of aroma and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the umami depth both in meatballs and gravy.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor without adding extra moisture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and highlights all the ingredients’ flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of mild heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning): Ensures a beautiful sear on the meatballs for extra flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for caramelizing onions and enriching the gravy.
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced: Slowly caramelized to bring a deep, sweet-savory base for the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy for that perfect, silky consistency.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates the rich, flavorful liquid foundation of the gravy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Added again in the gravy for a double hit of savory goodness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Adjust seasoning to your preference for a balanced gravy.
- 2 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The essential base for creamy mashed potatoes with wonderful texture.
- ½ cup milk (or more, to desired consistency): Makes the mashed potatoes luxuriously smooth and creamy.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel to the potatoes.
- Optional: ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese: For an extra indulgent creaminess in the mashed potatoes.
How to Make Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix the ingredients just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as keeping the meatballs tender is the goal here. You’ll want perfectly blended flavors in every bite.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs—this size ensures even cooking and a satisfying bite. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then carefully add the meatballs, browning them on all sides. This step usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes in total. Browning develops the deep, savory flavor that transforms these meatballs from ordinary to irresistible. Once browned, gently remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
Using the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium-low heat, then add the thinly sliced yellow onion. Cook slowly, stirring often for about 10 to 12 minutes until the onions turn soft, golden, and naturally sweet. This caramelization adds a rich, complex layer to your gravy that’s absolutely essential. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for one minute to cook out the raw taste and start thickening the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
Slowly whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, making sure to stir constantly so the sauce stays smooth without lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken and develop intense flavor. Taste and season with salt and pepper as you go. This luscious gravy will coat your meatballs in the most delightful way and make those mashed potatoes even more inviting.
Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs in Gravy
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them gently into the gravy. Cover and let everything simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are perfectly cooked through and the gravy reaches a thick, glossy consistency. This simmer melds all the flavors beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering in love and comfort all day long.
How to Serve Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe, consider topping your dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Not only do these herbs add a pop of vibrant green color, but their fresh flavors provide a lovely contrast to the rich gravy and meatballs. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper on the mashed potatoes can also add a pleasing touch.
Side Dishes
While the meatballs and mashed potatoes can stand proudly on their own, pairing them with simple sides can make your meal truly complete. Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette help balance the richness of the dish and introduce delightful textures and freshness to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the meatballs over a bed of mashed potatoes in individual ramekins, topped with a drizzle of extra gravy. Alternatively, plate the mashed potatoes in a ring shape and pile the meatballs in the center for an eye-catching presentation. Adding a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls can turn this comforting classic into a restaurant-worthy feast at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. The meatballs will stay juicy, and the mashed potatoes will maintain their creaminess for up to three days, making for an easy and delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe, it’s best to freeze the meatballs and gravy separately from the mashed potatoes. Place meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Potatoes can become a bit icy when frozen, so if you do freeze them, add a little extra milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to bring the gravy back to a silky consistency. For the mashed potatoes, warm them in a microwave-safe dish or in a saucepan with a splash of milk or butter, stirring to keep them smooth and creamy. This way, you’ll enjoy every bite as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option, but keep in mind it can be a bit drier. To keep your meatballs juicy, consider adding a bit more breadcrumbs or an extra egg and don’t overcook them during simmering.
What type of potatoes works best for the mashed potatoes?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes are ideal because they produce a creamy, fluffy texture once mashed. Yukon golds are naturally buttery, while russets absorb milk well, making them a perfect match for this recipe.
Can I make the gravy without flour?
Yes, you can substitute flour with cornstarch as a thickener if you prefer a gluten-free option. Use half the amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water before whisking it into the simmering broth.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the meatball mixture and shaped meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. The mashed potatoes and gravy are best when made fresh, but leftovers reheat beautifully.
Can I add vegetables directly to the gravy?
Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms or peas towards the end of simmering the meatballs can add wonderful texture and flavor that complements the gravy and meatballs beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves classic comfort food with deep, rich flavors and that homemade feeling. It’s a great way to gather friends or family around the table and share something hearty and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will find a special place in your cooking rotation, becoming one of those go-to meals you cherish and crave time after time.
Print
Irresistible Salisbury Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and hearty meal featuring savory Salisbury meatballs simmered in a rich, caramelized onion gravy, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a family dinner or cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80–85% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk (or more, to desired consistency)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Brown the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside.
- Make the Onion Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring often, for 10 to 12 minutes until golden and caramelized. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook the flour.
- Add Broth and Seasoning: Slowly whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer Meatballs in Gravy: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let them simmer gently on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and the gravy thickens.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Meanwhile, boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well and mash with butter and milk, adding more milk as needed to reach desired creaminess. Optionally, stir in sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve: Plate the creamy mashed potatoes and top with Salisbury meatballs and onion gravy. Enjoy immediately for a warm and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender and juicy.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking while browning meatballs.
- Caramelizing onions slowly over medium-low heat brings out their natural sweetness essential for a rich gravy.
- Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more broth if it becomes too thick during simmering.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef (90% lean) and reduce butter in mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
