Comfort Food with Rich Gravy and Classic Flavor
If you love the cozy, nostalgic flavors of classic Salisbury steak, you’re going to fall hard for this meatball version. Salisbury Steak Meatballs deliver everything we love about the original—juicy beef, savory seasoning, and rich brown gravy—but in tender, bite-sized meatballs that cook faster and serve easier.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or anytime you’re craving old-fashioned comfort food without the fuss. Serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, and you’ve got a hearty, satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Salisbury steak meatballs check all the comfort-food boxes:
- Juicy, flavorful meatballs made with simple ingredients
- Rich onion-mushroom gravy packed with savory depth
- Faster than traditional Salisbury steak
- Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
- Perfect for cozy dinners
It’s classic American comfort food made easier and just as delicious.
What Makes Salisbury Steak Meatballs Special?
Traditional Salisbury steak is usually served as pan-seared patties. Turning them into meatballs:
- Cuts down on cooking time
- Creates tender, evenly cooked bites
- Makes the dish easier to portion and serve
- Allows more surface area for soaking up gravy
Same flavor. Better convenience.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
For the Gravy
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until just combined. Roll into 1½-inch meatballs.
Tip: Don’t overmix—this keeps the meatballs tender.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes total. Remove meatballs and set aside.
They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onions and cook until soft and lightly golden, about 3–4 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook another 3 minutes until tender.
Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs
Return the meatballs to the skillet. Spoon gravy over them, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot over:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Egg noodles
- Steamed rice
- Buttered vegetables
Spoon extra gravy generously on top.
Pro Tips for the Best Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Use 80/20 beef for juicy meatballs
- Brown first, simmer later for deep flavor
- Scrape up browned bits for richer gravy
- Let simmer gently to avoid tough meatballs
- Serve immediately for best texture
Variations to Try
- Turkey Salisbury Meatballs: Use ground turkey with added butter for moisture
- Creamy Gravy Version: Add ¼ cup heavy cream at the end
- Slow Cooker Option: Brown meatballs, then simmer in gravy for 3–4 hours on low
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freeze cooked meatballs and gravy for up to 2 months
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe balances:
- Seasoned beef for flavor
- Breadcrumbs and egg for tenderness
- Slow simmering for juicy meatballs
- Savory gravy that ties everything together
The result is a dinner that feels nostalgic, comforting, and deeply satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are everything we love about classic American comfort food—warm, hearty, and full of flavor—but with a modern, weeknight-friendly twist.
If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that everyone will ask for again, this recipe delivers every time.
Old-fashioned flavor. Modern convenience. Pure comfort.