As I stirred the creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes bubbling away on the stove, the savory aroma of Salisbury steak meatballs filled the air, instantly transporting me to cozy family dinners of yesteryear. This recipe for Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb is a perfect comfort food that brings everyone together after a long day. Not only is it quick to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights—but it also delivers that satisfying, hearty experience that warms the soul. Picture tender meatballs smothered in rich, flavorful gravy, served alongside buttery mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth. Trust me, this dish will become a cherished staple at your dinner table. Are you ready to dive into this comforting delight?
Why Are These Steak Meatballs Irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe is designed for home cooks, requiring no fancy techniques—just mix, shape, and bake.
Savory Flavor: With a blend of ground beef, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce, every bite bursts with comforting goodness, reminiscent of family meals.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery garlic herb mashed potatoes perfectly complement the meatballs, creating a mouthwatering duo that no one can resist.
Versatility: Feel free to customize! Swap ground beef for turkey or try out a low-carb version with cauliflower mashed potatoes.
Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish fits seamlessly into your weeknight routine; less time cooking means more time with family.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for a family dinner or casual gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress, much like my Garlic Butter Chicken or Christmas Cranberry Meatballs.
Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting masterpiece!
For the Meatballs
- Ground Beef – Main source of protein and flavor; you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Breadcrumbs – Provides structure and helps bind the meatballs; use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it a gluten-free dish.
- Milk – Adds moisture to the meatball mixture; almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
- Onion – Brings sweetness and depth of flavor; sautéing it beforehand enhances its taste.
- Garlic – Elevates flavor; make sure to mince it for better integration.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Provides a savory umami tang that brings life to the dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
- Dried Parsley – Adds color and freshness; feel free to use fresh parsley if available.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder – Boosts flavor and complements the minced garlic and onion.
For the Gravy
- Beef Broth – Forms the base for the gravy, infusing savory depth; vegetable broth works for a lighter option.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the gravy; for a gluten-free dish, opt for cornstarch or a GF flour blend.
- Soy Sauce – Adds salty umami flavor; tamari can be used for a gluten-free alternative.
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces a subtle tang to elevate the gravy’s flavor.
For the Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
- Potatoes – The main ingredient providing a creamy base; cauliflower makes a great low-carb substitute.
- Butter – Ensures creaminess; you can swap with olive oil for a healthier alternative.
- Milk – Adds richness to the mashed potatoes; use non-dairy milk for a vegan version.
- Fresh Parsley – A lovely garnish that adds a refreshing touch to the final dish.
Now that you have everything you need, let’s embark on this delicious journey together!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it reaches the right temperature for perfectly baked steak meatballs. This step is crucial for creating a nicely browned exterior while keeping the inside juicy. As the oven warms, gather your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy meatball transfer once they’re ready to go in.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, dried parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring each meatball boasts the mouthwatering flavors of these steak meatballs with garlic herb goodness.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
With your mixture ready, it’s time to shape those delectable meatballs! Scoop about 1.5 inches of the mixture and roll them between your palms, forming uniform meatballs. Place the shaped meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for even cooking, then slide the tray into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach a rich golden brown.
Step 4: Boil the Potatoes
While the meatballs are baking, turn your attention to the garlic herb mashed potatoes. In a large pot, add chopped potatoes and cover them with salted water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Once done, drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan to keep warm.
Step 5: Make the Mashed Potatoes
In the saucepan with the drained potatoes, add minced garlic, butter, and milk. Use a potato masher to mash everything together until the mixture is creamy and smooth, free of lumps. Then, fold in fresh parsley, along with additional salt and pepper to taste, creating a flavorful base that complements your steak meatballs beautifully.
Step 6: Prepare the Gravy
Grab a frying pan and heat it over medium heat. Add flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to avoid browning. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps, and cook until the gravy thickens, approximately 3-5 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce and Dijon mustard, then adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to achieve a balanced, savory flavor ready to elevate your steak meatballs.
Step 7: Combine Meatballs and Gravy
Once the baking timer goes off, carefully remove the meatballs from the oven. Gently transfer them into the hot gravy, ensuring each meatball is generously coated in the rich sauce. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the gravy for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld and the meatballs absorb the delicious gravy goodness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, it’s time to plate your dish! Generously spoon the creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes onto each plate, creating a lovely foundation. Top them with the savory steak meatballs nestled in the luscious gravy, garnishing with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve immediately, ready to impress family and friends with this comforting meal that delivers warmth and satisfaction.
Expert Tips for Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb
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Sauté for Flavor: For a more robust taste, sauté the onion and garlic before mixing; this enhances their natural sweetness.
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Uniform Size: Shape the meatballs to the same size; this ensures even cooking, so every bite is perfectly tender.
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Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more beef broth; adjust to your desired consistency for optimal enjoyment.
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Storage Hint: Leftover steak meatballs can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
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Garnish with Freshness: Add fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of color and flavor, enhancing the visual appeal of your dish.
What to Serve with Savory Salisbury Steak Meatballs
There’s nothing quite like a comforting dinner that brings the family together, is there?
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Steamed Green Beans: These vibrant veggies add a fresh crunch to your meal, perfectly balancing the richness of the gravy.
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Garden Salad: A light mix of greens and vegetables offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs and creamy potatoes.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and satisfying texture complement the savory steeliness of the gravy, creating a wonderful harmony of taste.
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Garlic Bread: Crisp and buttery, this delightful side is perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy or dipping into the delicious mashed potatoes.
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Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy side adds a vibrant flavor contrast, enhancing each bite with a delightful crunch that rounds out the meal.
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine pairs excellently, adding depth to the savory flavors in your steak meatballs while making dinner feel special.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of rich chocolate cake provides a sweet end to your meal, resonating well with the comforting flavors of this dish.
Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Variations
Feel free to personalize these steak meatballs to suit your tastes and dietary needs—let your creativity shine!
- Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still keeping it delicious.
- Cheesy Twist: Add grated cheese to the meatball mixture for gooey, melty bites that take flavor to the next level.
- Vegetarian Alternative: For a veggie-friendly option, use lentils or chickpeas, mashed and mixed with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for everyone.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for those who love a little heat in their meatballs.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Replace traditional mashed potatoes with garlic mashed cauliflower for a creamy, low-carb twist that pairs perfectly. This option provides a wonderful, buttery flavor while being kinder on your waistline.
- Flavorful Broth: For an extra layer of flavor, use homemade beef broth or bone broth in place of store-bought options for your gravy.
- Savory Glaze: Brush the meatballs with a balsamic reduction before serving for a sweet and tangy finish that elevates the dish.
These variations will not only add freshness to the classic recipe but will also allow you to adjust flavors and textures to your family’s preferences—just like my Maple Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes makes for a vibrant meal that warms the heart!
How to Store and Freeze Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb
Fridge: Store leftover steak meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled before sealing to maintain their moisture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, place meatballs in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw meatballs overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to keep them juicy, or microwave on medium for quick results.
Gravy Storage: Store gravy separately in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving with your savory steak meatballs.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time while still enjoying a hearty meal! You can prepare the meatballs and form them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply place the uncooked meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate. The mashed potatoes can also be made ahead, but for the best texture, reheat with a splash of milk and butter to revive their creaminess before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, just bake the meatballs and prepare the gravy as directed, allowing you to savor a homemade dinner with minimal effort and just as much flavor!
Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Garlic Herb Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef is best for the meatballs?
I recommend using ground chuck for its balance of flavor and fat content, making your steak meatballs juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken also works beautifully.
How should I store leftover meatballs and mashed potatoes?
Place leftover steak meatballs and garlic herb mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best reheating experience, pop the meatballs in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and give the mashed potatoes a little stir with a splash of milk for creaminess.
Can I freeze the steak meatballs and gravy?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the meatballs and gravy cool completely. Portion them in separate airtight containers, freezing them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Gently warm the meatballs in a skillet over low heat or in the oven for a crispy exterior.
What if my mashed potatoes are too watery?
If your mashed potatoes turn out watery, try adding a bit of extra butter or cream cheese to thicken them up while mashing. Alternatively, you can place the mashed potatoes back over low heat and stir them constantly to cook off some excess moisture until they reach your desired consistency.
Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?
Certainly! You can use a plant-based ground meat alternative for the steak meatballs, and instead of beef broth, opt for vegetable broth. For the mashed potatoes, consider using cauliflower or a blend of potatoes and carrots for a nutritious twist. Just make sure to flavor them well with garlic and fresh herbs!
What dietary restrictions do I need to consider?
If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for the meatballs and gravy. For dairy-free versions, swap milk with almond milk and butter with olive oil. Always check labels for allergens, especially with sauces like soy sauce, or use tamari for gluten-free options.
Savory Steak Meatballs With Garlic Herb Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, dried parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Boil salted water in a pot. Cook the chopped potatoes for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender, then drain and return to the pot to let steam escape.
- Add garlic, butter, and milk to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and stir in parsley, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper.
- In a frying pan over medium heat, cook flour until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in beef broth, stirring until thickened. Add soy sauce and mustard, adjust flavors with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the gravy, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them simmer for a few minutes to absorb flavors.
- Serve the creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes topped with steak meatballs and gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley.
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