Name: Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef; 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup Finely Chopped Onions; 1/4 cup Milk; 1 Egg; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce; 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard; 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder; Salt and Black Pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons Butter; 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour; 2 cups Beef Broth; 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Thyme

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Have you ever wondered why some comfort foods spark nostalgia while others fall flat? Salisbury Steak Meatballs are one such dish that evokes warm memories of home-cooked meals, bringing families together around the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights and cozy gatherings alike, these meatballs combine the classic flavors of Salisbury steak into a delightful form that is sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll explore how you can make delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs that not only taste amazing, but also provide a balance of nutrition, convenience, and comfort.

Ingredients Needed

To create your own Salisbury Steak Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ground Beef (1 pound): The star of the show, giving your meatballs a hearty flavor and satisfying texture. Opt for a lean blend for a healthier choice.
Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): They act as a binding agent, helping to keep your meatballs moist and tender.
Finely Chopped Onions (1/4 cup): Adding sweetness and a depth of flavor.
Milk (1/4 cup): This keeps the meatballs juicy, rich, and flavorful.
Egg (1): Acts as an additional binder, helping the meatball mixture hold its shape.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 teaspoon): Provides a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of spice and acidity.
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the meatballs with aromatic flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Used for making the gravy; it adds richness.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the gravy to create a luxurious sauce.
Beef Broth (2 cups): The foundation of the gravy, providing hearty flavor.
Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens the savory notes in the gravy.
Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): For an added layer of deliciousness.
Thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces a subtle herbal note.

Feel free to play around with these ingredients – switch out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Timing

Creating Salisbury Steak Meatballs takes approximately 90 minutes, which is about 20% less time than the average recipe that involves complex cooking techniques. The breakdown is as follows:

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes

This timing makes it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner!

How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onions, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be careful!

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the meatballs in oil until they are golden brown on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes. Searing adds a lovely caramelization, enhancing the flavor.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt butter, whisk in flour, and gradually add beef broth while stirring constantly. Follow this with soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens – about 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Carefully add the meatballs back into the gravy and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a true comfort food experience!

Nutritional Information

A serving of Salisbury Steak Meatballs (approximately 4 meatballs with gravy) contains:

Calories: 450
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g

The nutritional value can change depending on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Looking for ways to make this dish healthier? Here are a few suggestions:

Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: These lean meats contain less fat and calories while still providing protein.
Opt for Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: Increasing fiber content can enhance the nutritional profile.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the mixture for added vitamins and minerals.
Swap Heavy Cream with Greek Yogurt: It can add creaminess to your gravy without the extra calories.

Serving Suggestions

Salisbury Steak Meatballs are incredibly versatile! Consider these serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Classic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture complements the meatballs perfectly.
Butter Noodles: Simple yet comforting, they soak up the gravy flavors.
Rice Pilaf: For a different texture, serve alongside flavorful rice.
Steamed Vegetables: Brighten your plate with a side of green beans or broccoli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Mixing the Meat: This can lead to dense meatballs. Mix just until combined.
Not Browning the Meatballs: Searing adds flavor; don’t skip this step!
Using Low-Quality Beef Broth: A rich, full-flavored broth makes a world of difference in your gravy.

Storing Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in the gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Conclusion

Salisbury Steak Meatballs encapsulate the essence of comfort food in every bite, marrying flavor, tradition, and satisfaction. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to cater it to your personal taste. We’d love to hear how it turns out, so feel free to share your thoughts or even your own variations!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve alongside Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Aside from mashed potatoes or noodles, green salad and crusty bread are great options!

Can I freeze cooked Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Absolutely! They freeze well in gravy, allowing you to enjoy this meal any time.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 160°F (71°C).

Are there vegetarian options for Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Yes! Substitute ground meat with lentils or mushrooms in the mixture to create a vegetarian version.

Can I use pre-made gravy instead of making my own?

Certainly! Pre-made gravy can save time, although making it from scratch allows for more flavor customization.

Try these Salisbury Steak Meatballs to experience comforting home cooking at its finest!