Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Published: July 15, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Sauce: The combination of mushrooms, onions, and Worcestershire sauce creates a savory sauce that elevates the meatballs to new heights.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair these meatballs with your favorite starch, whether it’s mashed potatoes or gluten-free alternatives like zucchini noodles.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family meals.
Healthy Twist: Using almond meal makes this recipe gluten-free and low-carb while still being hearty and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Salisbury Steak Meatballs efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowl
Skillet
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Essential for evenly cooking the meatballs while maintaining their shape.
Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and creating the flavorful sauce that accompanies the meatballs.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef, lean
1/3 cup almond meal for gluten free/low carb version (or bread crumbs if preferred)
1/3 cup chopped parsley
1 small onion finely chopped
1 egg
5 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil
16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup yellow onion, sliced ¼ inch thick
4 cloves garlic minced
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (more for garnish)
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar (Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce for gluten free)
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
1 teaspoon salt and pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatball ingredients:
1. Add ground beef.
2. Mix in almond meal, fresh chopped parsley, finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using a 1½-inch scoop:
1. Form meatballs from the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Ensure they are evenly spaced apart.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until their internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Sauté Mushrooms & Onions

While the meatballs bake:
1. In a large skillet over high heat, add olive oil.
2. Sauté sliced mushrooms until golden brown (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Remove mushrooms from skillet and set aside; reduce heat to medium-high.

Step 6: Cook Onions and Garlic

Add butter and sliced onions to the skillet:
1. Cook onions for about 4-5 minutes until soft.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 7: Create the Sauce

Add to skillet:
1. Beef broth,
2. Fresh parsley,
3. Worcestershire sauce,
4. Italian seasoning,
5. Cooked mushrooms,
6. Salt and pepper.
Bring this mixture to a simmer; reduce heat until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).

Step 8: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Once baked:
1. Add meatballs from oven into the skillet with sauce.
2. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
Serve warm and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Salisbury Steak Meatballs!

How to Serve Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Salisbury Steak Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just whipping up a quick family meal, these meatballs will impress everyone. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy your Salisbury Steak Meatballs.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The classic choice! Serve the meatballs over fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.

With Pasta

Toss the meatballs with your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, to create a delightful Italian-inspired dish. The rich sauce clings beautifully to the noodles.

On Rice

Enjoy your Salisbury Steak Meatballs served on a bed of steamed rice. This combination absorbs the flavorful sauce, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

In Zucchini Noodles

For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs on zucchini noodles. This fresh twist adds color and nutrition while keeping the dish light.

As Sliders

Transform the meatballs into sliders by placing them on small buns with some sauce and cheese. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings!

With Fresh Salad

Pair your meatballs with a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors nicely.

How to Perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Creating perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they’re tender and flavorful every time.

Use lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to ensure your meatballs have great flavor without excess grease.
Don’t overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined; overmixing can make the meatballs tough instead of tender.
Aim for even sizing: Use a scoop to form uniform meatballs so they cook evenly and look appealing when served.
Bake at the right temperature: Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal browning and cooking without drying them out.
Simmer in sauce: After baking, let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about five minutes to absorb even more flavor.
Garnish generously: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving; it adds freshness and enhances presentation!

Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

When it comes to pairing sides with your Salisbury Steak Meatballs, there are plenty of options that complement their rich flavors. Here are some fantastic side dishes that will enhance your meal experience.

Garlic Bread
A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious mushroom and onion sauce from your meatballs.
Steamed Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans provide a nice crunch and balance out the richness of the dish beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting Brussels sprouts caramelizes their natural sugars, creating an excellent side that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the meatballs, making it an ideal pairing.
Mashed Cauliflower
For a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes, creamy mashed cauliflower is low-carb yet still indulgent and delicious.
Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn on the cob brings bright flavors and texture, making it a fun side dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is another great way to soak up that tasty sauce while adding flavor depth.
Mixed Greens Salad
A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly will add freshness and balance out this hearty dish effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salisbury Steak Meatballs, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

Skipping the mixing: Failing to mix all meatball ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor and texture. Be sure to combine the mixture well to ensure every bite is delicious.
Not measuring ingredients: Eye-balling ingredients can throw off the balance of flavors. Always measure your ground beef, almond meal, and seasonings accurately for the best outcome.
Overcooking or undercooking meatballs: Cooking meatballs for too long can dry them out, while not cooking them enough can leave them unsafe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to confirm they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Neglecting mushroom preparation: If you don’t sauté the mushrooms properly, they may end up soggy rather than golden and flavorful. Make sure to cook them over high heat until they are golden brown before adding them back into the sauce.
Ignoring sauce thickness: A thin sauce can make the dish feel less satisfying. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place meatballs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
Stovetop: Add meatballs and sauce to a skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 5-7 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. Just be aware that turkey has a different flavor profile and may require additional seasoning.

What can I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

These meatballs are delicious served over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or even zoodles for a low-carb option.

How do I know when my Salisbury Steak Meatballs are done cooking?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Can I make Salisbury Steak Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake them.

Are there gluten-free options available?

Yes! Using almond meal instead of breadcrumbs makes this recipe gluten-free while still maintaining great flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a comforting dish that combines tender meatballs with a rich mushroom sauce. Their versatility allows you to serve them with various sides like mashed potatoes or zucchini noodles based on your dietary preferences. Feel free to customize the flavors by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Enjoy this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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