Articles, Cakes, Recipes

Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 32 ounces frozen homestyle meatballs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet brown gravy mix
  • 2 ½ cups low sodium beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:
    • Cook the frozen homestyle meatballs in the oven according to the package instructions, typically 15-20 minutes. Once done, set aside.
  2. Make the Gravy:
    • In a large skillet with deep sides, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
    • Add the thinly sliced sweet onion to the skillet and toss to coat in the butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions start to lightly brown, about 12-15 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Gravy Base:
    • Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and the packet of brown gravy mix over the onions. Stir well to coat evenly and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Add Beef Broth:
    • Slowly pour in 2 ½ cups of low sodium beef broth into the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
  5. Season the Gravy:
    • Stir in 1 tablespoon of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, ½ tablespoon of Dijon mustard (if using), and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Simmer the Gravy:
    • Bring the gravy to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently until the meatballs are fully cooked in the oven.
  7. Combine Meatballs and Gravy:
    • Once the meatballs are cooked through, transfer them carefully from the baking sheet to the skillet with the gravy. Coat the meatballs evenly with the gravy.
  8. Serve:
    • Serve the Salisbury Steak Meatballs immediately, spooning the gravy over them. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
  9. Garnish (optional):
    • Garnish with chopped parsley or additional black pepper for extra flavor and presentation.

Enjoy this hearty and comforting Salisbury Steak Meatballs dish, perfect for a satisfying dinner any day of the week!

Here are some helpful tips to make your Salisbury Steak Meatballs even more delightful:

  1. Use Homemade Meatballs: While frozen meatballs are convenient, making homemade meatballs with a blend of ground beef and pork can add more flavor and texture.
  2. Season Meatballs Well: Whether using frozen or homemade, season the meatballs with salt, pepper, and herbs like parsley or thyme before baking or cooking.
  3. Add Fresh Garlic: For extra flavor, sauté minced garlic with the onions in butter before adding flour and gravy mix. Garlic complements the savory richness of the dish.
  4. Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time to caramelize the onions until they are deeply golden brown. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the gravy.
  5. Enhance the Gravy: Consider adding a splash of red wine or a dash of soy sauce to the gravy for extra umami and complexity.
  6. Experiment with Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick to the gravy. Adjust the amount to your taste preference or try whole grain mustard for added texture.
  7. Simmer for Flavor: Allow the gravy to simmer gently after adding the meatballs. This helps meld the flavors together and ensures the meatballs are well-coated.
  8. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the finished dish before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
  9. Serve with Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with Salisbury Steak. Make them with butter, cream, and a hint of garlic for a luxurious side dish.
  10. Add a Touch of Cream: For an even richer gravy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving. This adds creaminess and balances the savory flavors.
  11. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese over the meatballs and gravy just before serving for an extra indulgent touch.
  12. Include Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms pair wonderfully with Salisbury Steak flavors. Add them to the gravy along with the onions for a delicious addition.
  13. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and gravy ahead of time, then reheat gently before serving. This allows flavors to develop further.
  14. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the gravy before adding the meatballs. Add a pinch of sugar if needed to balance the acidity.
  15. Use Fresh Beef Broth: If possible, use homemade or high-quality beef broth for the best flavor in the gravy. It makes a noticeable difference.
  16. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the meatballs for a sweet and tangy finish.
  17. Serve with a Side Salad: Add freshness to your meal by serving a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette alongside the meatballs and potatoes.
  18. Add a Hint of Heat: If you enjoy spicy flavors, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a subtle kick.
  19. Toast Bread Crumbs: Mix toasted bread crumbs into the meatball mixture for added texture and a hint of nutty flavor.
  20. Experiment with Different Gravies: Instead of traditional brown gravy, try making a mushroom gravy or a red wine reduction sauce to accompany the meatballs.

By incorporating these tips, you’ll elevate your Salisbury Steak Meatballs to a new level of deliciousness, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal!

Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs:

  1. Quality Meatballs: Whether homemade or store-bought, ensure the meatballs are of good quality and well-seasoned.
  2. Proper Seasoning: Season the meatballs generously with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer.
  3. Caramelized Onions: Take the time to caramelize the onions slowly until they are deeply golden brown. This adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
  4. Rich Gravy Base: Use a combination of beef broth and brown gravy mix for a robust and flavorful gravy base.
  5. Balanced Flavors: Adjust the seasoning of the gravy with Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and black pepper to achieve a balanced savory profile.
  6. Simmer for Flavor: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the gravy after baking or cooking to absorb flavors and ensure they are tender.
  7. Thickening the Gravy: If needed, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir into the simmering gravy to thicken it to your desired consistency.
  8. Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
  9. Serve with Comforting Sides: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy rice to complement the rich flavors of the meatballs and gravy.
  10. Resting Time: Allow the meatballs to rest in the gravy for a few minutes before serving. This helps them absorb more flavor and ensures they stay juicy.
  11. Adjustable Gravy: Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning as needed before adding the meatballs. Add a touch of sugar if the gravy is too acidic.
  12. Sautéed Mushrooms: For an extra layer of flavor, sauté mushrooms in butter and add them to the gravy along with the meatballs.
  13. Finish with Cream: For a luxurious touch, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream into the gravy just before serving.
  14. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and gravy ahead of time and reheat gently before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
  15. Experiment with Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese over the meatballs and gravy for added richness and depth of flavor.

Following these secrets will help you achieve delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs that are tender, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy!

Here are 40 popular questions and answers related to Salisbury Steak Meatballs:

  1. What are Salisbury Steak Meatballs? Salisbury Steak Meatballs are bite-sized meatballs typically made from ground beef, seasoned and cooked in a savory gravy.
  2. Is Salisbury Steak the same as meatballs? Salisbury Steak is traditionally a larger, oval-shaped patty, whereas Salisbury Steak Meatballs are smaller, round meatballs cooked in a similar style but served in gravy.
  3. How do you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Prepare or purchase meatballs, cook them, then simmer in a savory gravy made with onions, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and other seasonings.
  4. What do you serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • They are often served with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the delicious gravy.
  5. What kind of meat is used for Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Ground beef is the most common choice, often mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings.
  6. Can Salisbury Steak Meatballs be made ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and gravy ahead of time, then reheat gently before serving.
  7. Are Salisbury Steak Meatballs gluten-free?
    • It depends on the recipe and ingredients used. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make the meatballs gluten-free.
  8. What makes Salisbury Steak Meatballs different from regular meatballs?
    • They are typically cooked in a savory gravy with onions and served in a manner reminiscent of Salisbury Steak.
  9. Can Salisbury Steak Meatballs be frozen?
    • Yes, you can freeze both cooked and uncooked Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
  10. What spices are used in Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Common spices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sometimes Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
  11. Can Salisbury Steak Meatballs be made in a slow cooker?
    • Yes, you can cook Salisbury Steak Meatballs in a slow cooker by simmering them in the gravy on low heat for several hours.
  12. Is Salisbury Steak Meatballs a traditional dish?
    • It’s a variation inspired by Salisbury Steak, which is a traditional American dish.
  13. How long do you cook Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Cooking time varies but typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes when baking in the oven or simmering in the gravy.
  14. What is the origin of Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Salisbury Steak itself originated in the United States in the 19th century, named after Dr. J.H. Salisbury, who advocated for a diet high in lean meat.
  15. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with ground turkey?
    • Yes, ground turkey can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter version of Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
  16. What wine pairs well with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the savory flavors of Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
  17. How do you store leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
  18. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs without gravy?
    • While traditionally served with gravy, you can omit the gravy or use a lighter sauce if preferred.
  19. Are Salisbury Steak Meatballs kid-friendly?
    • Yes, they are often enjoyed by children due to their savory flavors and bite-sized portions.
  20. What vegetables can you add to Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas are commonly added to the gravy for extra flavor and texture.
  21. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs in an Instant Pot?
    • Yes, you can cook Salisbury Steak Meatballs in an Instant Pot by sautéing onions, adding meatballs, broth, and other ingredients, then pressure cooking.
  22. How do you thicken Salisbury Steak Meatball gravy?
    • Mix a slurry of cornstarch and water and stir it into the simmering gravy until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  23. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with ground pork?
    • Yes, ground pork can be used alone or mixed with ground beef for Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
  24. What sides go well with Salisbury Steak Meatballs besides mashed potatoes?
    • Rice pilaf, buttered egg noodles, or steamed vegetables are excellent alternatives.
  25. Is Salisbury Steak Meatballs a low-carb dish?
    • It can be made lower in carbs by using low-carb breadcrumbs or omitting the gravy and serving with a side of vegetables.
  26. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs in a skillet?
    • Yes, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet, then simmer them in the gravy until cooked through.
  27. How do you make gluten-free Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in place of regular breadcrumbs when making the meatballs.
  28. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with ground chicken?
    • Yes, ground chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version of Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
  29. What do you do with Salisbury Steak Meatballs leftovers?
    • Reheat and serve them as leftovers, or use them in sandwiches or wraps.
  30. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs spicy?
    • Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick, if desired.
  31. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with ground lamb?
    • Yes, ground lamb can be used for a unique twist on Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
  32. How do you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs creamy?
    • Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream into the gravy for added creaminess.
  33. What can you substitute for Worcestershire sauce in Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Soy sauce or steak sauce can be used as substitutes for Worcestershire sauce.
  34. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs without onions?
    • Yes, you can omit onions or use onion powder if preferred.
  35. Can you bake Salisbury Steak Meatballs instead of cooking them on the stovetop?
    • Yes, baking in the oven is a convenient method for cooking Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
  36. How do you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs healthier?
    • Use lean ground beef or turkey, reduce salt, and serve with a lighter gravy or sauce.
  37. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs without breadcrumbs?
    • Yes, you can omit breadcrumbs or use crushed pork rinds as a low-carb alternative.
  38. Can you make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with ground veal?
    • Yes, ground veal can be used for a tender and flavorful version of Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
  39. How do you prevent Salisbury Steak Meatballs from falling apart?
    • Ensure the meatball mixture is well-combined and not too wet. Sear them before simmering in the gravy to help hold their shape.
  40. How do you reheat Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a bit of additional gravy or broth to prevent drying out.

These answers cover a range of common questions about Salisbury Steak Meatballs, helping you understand and prepare this delicious dish with confidence!