Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
If you’re looking for a meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, I have just the thing for you—my beloved Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. It takes the classic flavors of Salisbury steak and transforms them into bite-sized meatballs, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Trust me; once you serve this, it might just become a staple in your home!
The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a hearty meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, the combination of savory meatballs smothered in rich gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes is pure bliss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 50 minutes, making it an excellent option for those hectic evenings.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for later.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of seasoned beef with savory gravy creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that this Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this comforting dish.
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Add some veggies: Toss in some grated carrots or finely chopped spinach into the meatball mixture for an extra nutritional boost.
- Switch up the seasoning: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to give your meatballs a unique twist.
- Try different sides: Serve with steamed vegetables or rice if you’re looking for a change from mashed potatoes.
How to Make Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well is essential as it ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Once combined, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until they are browned on all sides—about 7-8 minutes should do it. Setting them aside allows them to rest while we prepare our rich gravy.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
Using the same skillet where you cooked your meatballs adds incredible flavor to your gravy! Melt butter over medium heat before adding sliced onions. Cook them until they’re soft and golden brown—this caramelization brings sweetness that balances out the savory flavors beautifully. Stir in flour to cook away any raw taste before gradually whisking in beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Adding thyme here is optional but definitely worth it! Let it simmer until thickened before returning those delicious meatballs back into the skillet for another five minutes.
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
While your meatballs are simmering away in their gravy bath, let’s focus on those creamy mashed potatoes! Boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until they’re tender—about 15-20 minutes should be perfect. Drain them well before returning them to their pot. Adding butter, milk, sour cream (if using), salt, and pepper transforms these humble spuds into velvety goodness as you mash everything together until smooth.
Step 4: Serve
Now comes my favorite part! Spoon generous servings of mashed potatoes onto plates and crown them with those succulent Salisbury meatballs drenched in gravy. If you want an extra touch of flair, feel free to garnish with some fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy every hearty bite!
Pro Tips for Making Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Creating a delicious meal is all about the little things, and these tips will help you take your Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes to the next level!
- Choose lean beef: Using 80% lean ground beef gives you a balance of flavor and tenderness without excess fat. This keeps your meatballs juicy while still being manageable.
- Let the meatball mixture rest: Allowing the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before forming the meatballs helps the breadcrumbs absorb moisture, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful meatball.
- Use a thermometer: To ensure your meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). This guarantees safety without overcooking.
- Flavorful gravy base: Sautéing onions until golden before adding flour enhances the gravy’s depth of flavor. The caramelization brings out natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Customize your mashed potatoes: Feel free to add garlic or herbs like chives for an extra kick in your mashed potatoes. Personalizing this side dish can make it even more comforting and memorable!
How to Serve Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Serving your Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to present this heartwarming meal beautifully.
Garnishes
- Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
- Black pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of black pepper flakes can elevate the flavors and provide an eye-catching detail.
Side Dishes
- Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of mashed potatoes, adding both color and nutrition.
- Garlic bread: A slice of warm garlic bread on the side is perfect for mopping up gravy, enhancing the overall comfort food experience.
- Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a lovely sweetness that complements the savory flavors while contributing an appealing splash of color.
- Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to this hearty dish, making every bite enjoyable.
Now that you’re armed with tips for success and great serving ideas, get ready to enjoy a delightful dinner that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store the components separately, and enjoy a hearty meal throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep mashed potatoes in a separate container to maintain their texture for up to 3 days as well.
Freezing
- Place cooled meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- For mashed potatoes, use a freezer-safe container, but avoid adding sour cream before freezing; stir it in after reheating.
Reheating
- Thaw meatballs and gravy in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
- Reheat mashed potatoes in a microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or butter if they seem dry.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this recipe:
Can I use ground turkey for the Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to beef. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
How can I make the gravy thicker in my Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, simply whisk in an extra tablespoon of flour while cooking. Let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
What can I serve alongside this Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe?
Green beans or steamed broccoli make excellent sides that complement the rich flavors of the meatballs and mashed potatoes beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, it’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to try out variations or add your personal touch—happy cooking!
Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes
If you’re craving a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, look no further than this Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe. This delightful dish transforms the classic flavors of Salisbury steak into bite-sized meatballs, creating a satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With tender beef meatballs smothered in rich gravy and served atop creamy mashed potatoes, this recipe is both comforting and easy to prepare. In just under an hour, you can have a hearty meal on the table that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 cups beef broth
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; brown meatballs for about 7-8 minutes. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté sliced onions until golden. Whisk in flour, then gradually add beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Simmer until thickened.
- Return meatballs to the skillet for about five minutes to coat them in gravy.
- For mashed potatoes: Boil cubed potatoes until tender; drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
