There is something truly heartwarming about homestyle meals that bring comfort and satisfaction in every bite, and this Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes – Cozy Classic Recipe does just that. Picture tender, juicy meatballs infused with savory seasonings, smothered in a luscious gravy, paired alongside creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family or unwinding after a busy day. Get ready to create a timeless classic with simple ingredients that come together to form a memorable, satisfying feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in layering the flavors, textures, and aromas that make this dish a standout. From the ground beef providing richness to the fresh herbs that brighten the mashed potatoes, every component is thoughtfully chosen for maximum deliciousness.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base for your meatballs, choose a blend with some fat for juicy results.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping their texture tender.
- ¼ cup milk: Adds moisture to the meat mixture for a soft bite.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Offers sweetness and a bit of crunch inside the meatballs.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses subtle pungency and depth.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and complexity to the meat mixture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings a mild herbal note to the meatballs.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Intensifies the onion flavor without bulk.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic profile for savory richness.
- 2 cups beef broth: Forms the flavorful base for the savory gravy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds color and a deeper savory dimension.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang to balance the gravy.
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped: The foundation for the creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the mashed potatoes with fragrant warmth.
- ¼ cup butter: Adds richness and velvety texture to the potatoes.
- ½ cup milk: Makes the potatoes luxuriously smooth and creamy.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the mashed potatoes with fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes – Cozy Classic Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures a hot environment so your meatballs cook evenly and develop that perfect outer crust. Preparation is key to a smooth cooking process!
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, dried parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix gently and thoroughly to unify those flavors without overworking the meat, which keeps your meatballs tender and juicy.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatballs
Form your meat mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter—perfect bite-sized portions. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet, making sure not to crowd them, so each meatball gets properly cooked and browned. Bake them for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and slightly browned on the edges.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
While the meatballs bake, boil your chopped potatoes in salted water until they are tender—usually around 15 to 20 minutes. Timing here lets everything come together perfectly in the end without rush or delay.
Step 5: Mash and Season the Potatoes
Drain your cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add your minced garlic, butter, and milk. Mash everything until wonderfully smooth and creamy. Finish by stirring in fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. These potatoes are pure comfort, bursting with bright herbaceous flavors and luscious garlic undertones.
Step 6: Make the Savory Gravy
In a skillet, toast the flour over medium heat for about a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth to prevent lumps from forming. Add the soy sauce and Dijon mustard, then season with salt and pepper. Let the gravy simmer until it thickens beautifully, about 5 minutes, creating a rich coating for your meatballs.
Step 7: Combine Meatballs with Gravy
Once your meatballs are perfectly cooked, transfer them to the skillet with the simmered gravy. Gently toss to coat each meatball in the luscious sauce, making each bite deeply satisfying and moist throughout.
Step 8: Plate and Serve
Serve your Salisbury steak meatballs with a generous helping of those dreamy garlic herb mashed potatoes. The contrast between tender meat and creamy potatoes smothered in gravy is exactly the kind of meal that keeps you coming back for more.
How to Serve Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes – Cozy Classic Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a burst of fresh color and mild herbal fragrance. A dollop of sour cream on the mashed potatoes also adds a tangy creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the gravy.
Side Dishes
To round out this classic meal, consider simple steamed green beans or roasted carrots. These vegetables add a crisp texture and vibrant color contrast that balance the hearty meatballs and creamy potatoes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style presentation, serve the meatballs and mashed potatoes in a large, rustic serving dish with extra gravy on the side, inviting everyone to help themselves. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a drizzle of gravy artistically poured over for a restaurant-inspired look that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover meatballs and mashed potatoes in airtight containers and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making an easy, comforting meal for later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked meatballs in gravy separately from the mashed potatoes. Wrap them tightly and store in freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep for up to 2 months without losing any flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in a saucepan over low heat to avoid toughening the meat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed. Rewarm mashed potatoes in the microwave or stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of milk or butter to restore creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, though the texture may be slightly lighter. Just be mindful to add enough seasoning and moisture to keep the meatballs tender.
Can I make the mashed potatoes dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free spread, and use almond milk or your favorite plant-based milk instead of cow’s milk. The garlic and herbs will still provide tons of flavor.
How do I know when meatballs are fully cooked?
Meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). They should be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so checking is always a good idea.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can mix and form the meatballs a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Mashed potatoes are best made fresh but can also be reheated well with a little extra milk or butter.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
Try a combination of soy sauce and a small pinch of vinegar as a quick substitute. It won’t be exactly the same but will provide that savory umami boost Worcestershire sauce brings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening, this Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes – Cozy Classic Recipe is an unbeatable choice. The flavors are rich, comforting, and timeless, and the process is straightforward enough for any home cook to master. Give it a try and savor a hearty meal that feels like coming home.
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Salisbury Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes – Cozy Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes is a cozy, classic comfort food recipe combining tender baked beef meatballs smothered in a rich, savory gravy served alongside creamy garlic-infused mashed potatoes with fresh herbs. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare and full of robust flavors.
Ingredients
Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Gravy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup butter
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare 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. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape and Bake Meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into approximately 1.5-inch diameter meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
- Boil Potatoes: While the meatballs bake, place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large saucepan with water. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan. Add minced garlic, butter, and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare Gravy: In a frying pan over medium heat, cook 2 tablespoons of flour for about one minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add soy sauce and Dijon mustard, then season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Combine Meatballs and Gravy: Once meatballs are cooked, add them gently into the simmering gravy. Coat the meatballs well with the gravy and heat through for a few minutes.
- Serve: Plate the Salisbury steak meatballs with a generous serving of garlic herb mashed potatoes alongside. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use freshly minced garlic rather than garlic powder in the mashed potatoes.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Soy sauce adds umami depth to the gravy; low-sodium soy sauce can reduce salt content.
- Leftover meatballs and gravy reheat well and can be frozen for future meals.

