Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that wraps comfort, flavor, and a bit of nostalgia all in one plate, the Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes are here to warm your heart. This recipe takes the classic rich and savory taste of Salisbury steak and transforms it into tender, juicy meatballs served alongside creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic and fresh herbs. Each bite is a celebration of home-cooked goodness that feels both special and satisfying, perfect for a cozy night in or impressing your friends over dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes comes alive thanks to simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each element plays a vital role: the ground beef brings hearty richness, breadcrumbs make the meatballs perfectly tender, while fresh herbs and spices build layers of flavor. The potatoes, combined with garlic and butter, create that irresistible creamy base that complements every savory mouthful.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein, providing juicy meatballs with a rich taste.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps hold the meatballs together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Gives a gentle kick and aromatic warmth.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything unified.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a savory, tangy punch.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings a touch of herbal freshness.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor smoothly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic character.
- 2 cups beef broth: The base for the savory gravy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami and color to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Offers a slight tang and depth to the gravy.
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped: For the foundational comfort of the mashed potatoes.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the mashed potatoes with aromatic warmth.
- 1/4 cup butter: Brings richness and creaminess.
- 1/2 cup milk: Creates smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a vibrant burst of color and flavor to the potatoes.
How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat and prepare the meat mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), so it’s ready when your meatballs are shaped. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, dried parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mixing everything thoroughly ensures every meatball bursts with balanced flavors and a tender texture. Give the mixture a good mix but don’t overwork it — you want moist and juicy meatballs, not tough ones.
Step 2: Shape and bake the Salisbury steak meatballs
Next, gently form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs — about the size that fits perfectly on your fork. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven for about 20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and browned lightly on top. Baking instead of frying keeps these meatballs juicy and lets you prepare other components without extra mess.
Step 3: Prepare the garlic herb mashed potatoes
While your meatballs bake, it’s time to work on that creamy side everyone loves. Boil the peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. Drain them well and return them to the pan. Add minced garlic, butter, and milk, then mash everything together until beautifully smooth and fluffy. Stir in chopped fresh parsley along with a pinch of salt and pepper to amplify those herbaceous and savory notes.
Step 4: Whip up the savory gravy
Now, the gravy is where the Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes truly shine together. In a skillet, cook the flour over medium heat for about a minute to get rid of that raw taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, keeping it lump-free as the mixture thickens. Add the soy sauce and Dijon mustard for layers of umami and tang, then season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer until the gravy coats the back of your spoon perfectly.
Step 5: Combine meatballs and gravy
Once your meatballs are out of the oven, transfer them directly into the simmering gravy, turning gently to coat every inch in that luscious sauce. Let them warm together for a few minutes so all the flavors marry beautifully—this step transforms simple meatballs into something truly special.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Plate your Salisbury steak meatballs generously spooned with the glossy gravy alongside a comforting heap of garlic herb mashed potatoes. This classic pairing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining creamy, herby spuds with tender, savory meat packed with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down, savor, and come back for seconds.
How to Serve Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add a fresh burst of flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the meatballs and mashed potatoes. A tiny pat of melting butter on the potatoes or even a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper brightens up the dish visually and enhances the taste without complicating the simple comfort.
Side Dishes
While Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes can easily stand on their own, pairing them with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans creates a refreshing contrast. Lightly sautéed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also add a nice textural balance and extra nutrients, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on this classic, try serving the meatballs and mashed potatoes in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. Layer the mashed potatoes on the bottom, spoon the meatballs and gravy on top, then garnish with fresh herbs for a rustic but elegant look. Alternatively, scoop the meatballs onto a bed of mashed potatoes on a large platter for a family-style presentation that invites sharing around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this comforting feast, wrap any leftovers tightly in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day. Just be sure to consume within three to four days for the best quality and safety.
Freezing
Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes freeze well if you want to plan ahead. Freeze meatballs coated in gravy separately from the mashed potatoes in airtight containers or freezer bags. Label and date each container and freeze for up to two months. This way, you can thaw and reheat easily without compromising texture or flavor.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, gently reheat the meatballs and gravy in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For the mashed potatoes, microwave them gently with a splash of milk and a little butter to restore their creamy texture. Alternatively, reheat everything together in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) until piping hot.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe. Just be mindful that turkey can dry out faster, so avoid overbaking and consider adding a little extra moisture like Worcestershire sauce or milk to keep your meatballs juicy.
How can I make the garlic herb mashed potatoes creamier?
For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use a mix of butter and heavy cream instead of milk, and mash the potatoes using a potato ricer or hand mixer for a fluffier texture. Adding roasted garlic instead of raw gives a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor as well.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Make sure your Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe and delicious.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. They will also be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside when cut open.
Can I make the Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes ahead of time for a dinner party?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy a day in advance and reheat them gently before serving. The mashed potatoes are best made fresh but can also be prepared earlier and warmed with a bit of milk and butter added.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a plate full of Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes. With every forkful, you get that nostalgic feeling of home cooking, wrapped up in a bursting harmony of flavors and textures. I truly encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s an easy way to bring joy and warmth to your table, whether for a regular weeknight or a cozy special occasion.
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Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender ground beef meatballs baked to perfection, smothered in a rich savory gravy, and served with creamy garlic-infused mashed potatoes. This classic meal combines robust flavors and smooth textures that make it perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Gravy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get ready for baking the meatballs.
- Mix meatball ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, dried parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder until evenly mixed.
- Shape and bake meatballs: Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until fully cooked through.
- Boil potatoes: While meatballs bake, place peeled and chopped potatoes in a large saucepan of water and boil until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare mashed potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return to the pan. Add minced garlic, butter, and milk. Mash until smooth, then stir in chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the gravy: In a frying pan, cook the flour over medium heat for about one minute. Slowly whisk in beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add soy sauce and Dijon mustard, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine meatballs and gravy: Once meatballs are done, transfer them to the gravy pan and coat them thoroughly with the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the Salisbury steak meatballs and serve with a generous portion of garlic herb mashed potatoes for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sauté the onions before mixing into the meatball mixture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer, pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking for a crispier exterior.
- Adjust garlic amount in mashed potatoes according to your preference.
- The gravy can be thickened more by adding additional flour if needed.
- Leftover meatballs with gravy can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Boiling, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Salisbury steak, meatballs, garlic herb mashed potatoes, comfort food, beef recipe, easy dinner, homemade gravy

