I have such fond memories of my childhood meals, and one dish that always brings back those warm feelings is my Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes recipe. It combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a velvety gravy poured over fluffy mashed potatoes. This dish has a nostalgic touch that makes me feel right at home. If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare, you’ve come to the right place.
What are Salisbury Meatballs?
Salisbury meatballs are a twist on the classic Salisbury steak. They consist of ground beef mixed with spices and onions, shaped into meatballs and served with a rich gravy. This dish captures the essence of home cooking, making it perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Why Mashed Potatoes?
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. They are creamy, buttery, and pair perfectly with the rich gravy from the meatballs. A scoop of mashed potatoes underneath those savory meatballs creates a delightful combination that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients for Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes
Here are the ingredients you will need to whip up Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes:
Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is best)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 Tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
How to Make Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture as this can make the meatballs tough.
Once mixed, shape the mixture into equal-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the meatballs on it. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned.
Making the Gravy
While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to make the gravy. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about a minute until it becomes light brown.
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir in onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the gravy thickens. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Cooking the Mashed Potatoes
As the meatballs bake and the gravy simmers, you can prepare your mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and cut potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until they reach your desired creaminess. Season with salt to taste.
Combining It All Together
Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the gravy and let them simmer for a few minutes. This helps the meatballs soak up that delicious flavor.
To serve, spoon a generous amount of mashed potatoes onto a plate. Top with Salisbury meatballs and ladle over some of the gravy. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine.
Why You’ll Love Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes
There are so many reasons to love Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. Here are a few points to consider:
- Comforting: This dish is like a warm hug after a long day.
- Easy to Make: Even novice cooks can handle this recipe with ease.
- Versatile: Perfect for family dinners or Sunday gatherings.
- Satisfying: The hearty flavors will leave you feeling full and happy.
Tips for Perfect Salisbury Meatballs
Here are some of my top tips to create the perfect dish every time:
- Use Quality Meat: Ground beef with a bit of fat will yield juicier meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatball ingredients just enough to combine, but not too much to avoid toughness.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to modify spices to match your flavor preferences.
- Simmer in Gravy: Letting the meatballs simmer in gravy infuses them with even more flavor.
Serving Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes
I typically serve my Salisbury meatballs with some steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, for added color and nutrition. A slice of crusty bread on the side works beautifully for mopping up any leftover gravy.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they store well! Just place the meatballs and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, warm them on the stove or microwave until heated through. The mashed potatoes can also be stored and reheated in the same way.
Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes evoke feelings of love and comfort for me. The sweet aroma, rich flavors, and fluffy texture come together to create a dish that warms your heart. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in on the couch.