If you love the rich, comforting flavors of Salisbury steak but want something a little more fun, these Salisbury steak meatballs are exactly what you need. Juicy, tender beef meatballs are simmered in a savory brown onion gravy that’s packed with deep, hearty flavors. Serve them over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a meal that tastes like pure comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic flavors in bite-sized form – Perfect for easy serving!
- Rich, savory gravy – Made with caramelized onions and beef broth for extra depth.
- Great for meal prep – These meatballs freeze beautifully.
Ingredients
(A quick look—find the full ingredient list below!)
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Worcestershire sauce
- Egg
- Garlic and onion powder
- Beef broth
- Dijon mustard
- Flour (for thickening the gravy)
- Butter
Directions
Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Roll into small meatballs and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter and cook the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, add a little more butter and sauté sliced onions until soft and caramelized. Stir in flour and cook for a minute, then slowly whisk in beef broth and Dijon mustard.
Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs
Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let them simmer in the gravy for about 10-15 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use a mix of beef and pork – For even juicier meatballs.
- Don’t overmix the meat – It can make the meatballs dense.
- For extra flavor – Add a splash of soy sauce to the gravy.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Mushroom Gravy – Add sliced mushrooms to the onions for a richer taste.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch instead of flour.
- Slow Cooker Method – Brown the meatballs first, then simmer in the slow cooker on low for 4 hours.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These meatballs are best served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. For sides, pair them with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or buttered dinner rolls.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little broth if needed.
- Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes! Bake them at 375°F for about 20 minutes, then add them to the gravy. - How do I keep my meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg to bind the mixture. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the meatballs and store them raw or cooked in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. - What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?
If needed, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the gravy while simmering.
Conclusion
Salisbury steak meatballs bring all the rich, comforting flavors of the classic dish into an easy-to-eat, bite-sized form. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for later, this dish is always a winner. Try it out and enjoy every savory bite!
PrintSalisbury Steak Meatballs – A Cozy Twist on a Classic
Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of classic Salisbury steak in bite-sized form! These tender beef meatballs are simmered in a savory brown onion gravy and served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a cozy, satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a freezer-friendly make-ahead dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and roll into small meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté onions until soft and caramelized. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Simmer the Meatballs: Slowly whisk in beef broth and Dijon mustard. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Notes
- For juicier meatballs, use a mix of beef and pork.
- Don’t overmix the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
- Add a splash of soy sauce for extra umami flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg