These classic Salisbury meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor, served on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. A warm hug for your tummy, they’re sure to please the whole family!
Honestly, who can resist meatballs smothered in rich gravy? I love pairing this with buttery potatoes—it’s pure comfort food! Perfect for a cozy dinner anytime. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Traditional Salisbury meatballs use ground beef, but mixing in some ground pork adds great flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey works, too!
Bread Crumbs: You can use plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs here. If you’re gluten-free, swap in crushed gluten-free crackers or oats for a similar texture.
Milk: Regular milk gives a nice moist texture to the meatballs. For a dairy-free option, try almond or oat milk instead. Just select a variety that isn’t too sweet.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for creamy mashed potatoes due to their buttery flavor. Russets are great too, but they can be a bit fluffier. Sweet potatoes would add a nice twist for those looking for something different!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
It’s super important not to overmix your meatball mixture. When combining the ingredients, mix just until they come together—this keeps the meatballs tender. Also, shape them gently; a light touch goes a long way!
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to make even-sized meatballs.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the meatballs. This helps seal the outside and keeps them juicy inside.
- For added moisture, avoid cooking them completely before adding them to the gravy; they’ll finish cooking while simmering!
What’s the Secret to Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
For perfectly creamy mashed potatoes, use warmed milk and softened butter. Cold ingredients can make the potatoes gummy. Mashing them while they’re hot is also essential.
- Don’t overboil your potatoes! Cook just until tender, then drain.
- For flavor, you can add garlic powder, cream cheese, or sour cream to the mix.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for the best texture—avoid blenders as they can turn potatoes gluey.
With these tips, you’re all set to make a delicious and comforting meal that everyone will love! Happy cooking! 😊
Classic Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Salisbury 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 (900 g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time for this recipe is about 45 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll enjoy the aroma of the meatballs and gravy simmering while the potatoes cook. It’s a delicious journey that ends with a comforting, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined, being careful not to overmix as that can make the meatballs tough. Next, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter.
2. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet.
3. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook while stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color but does not burn. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, and let the gravy simmer gently for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the Meatballs:
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, making sure they’re covered in the gravy. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the meatballs simmer for about 15 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and juicy.
5. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
While the meatballs are simmering, peel and cut the potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the warm milk and butter, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra creamy touch, you can use a hand mixer if you prefer.
7. Serve It Up:
To serve, spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto a plate and top with the Salisbury meatballs. Don’t forget to drizzle extra gravy over everything for added flavor! Enjoy this comforting classic that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Bon Appétit! 😊
FAQ for Classic Salisbury Meatballs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just be mindful that turkey may result in slightly drier meatballs, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like a splash of broth or extra Worcestershire sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and gravy separately for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the meatballs up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator before cooking. When you’re ready to eat, simply follow the cooking instructions from there!
How Can I Thicken the Gravy Further?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a little cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and whisk it into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired thickness. Just remember to let it cook for a few more minutes to ensure the cornstarch is cooked through!
These tips should help you make the most of your Salisbury meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy! 😊
