Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Instructions:

1. Make the Meatballs:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense meatballs.
• Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, making about 16-18 meatballs.

2. Cook the Meatballs:

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You don’t need to cook them through at this point; just get a nice sear on the outside.
• Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside. Repeat with the remaining meatballs.

3. Make the Gravy:

• In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the flour, allowing it to cook for about 1 minute, forming a roux (a thickening agent for the gravy).
• Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Add the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly.

4. Combine Meatballs and Gravy:

• Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have absorbed some of the savory gravy.
• Stir occasionally to prevent the gravy from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

5. Serve:

• Once the meatballs are fully cooked, serve them with the gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal. You can garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Meatball Texture: To ensure your meatballs stay juicy and tender, avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. The key is to gently combine all the ingredients without compacting the meat.
• Gravy Consistency: If your gravy is too thick, add a little more beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, continue simmering it for a few extra minutes until it thickens to your liking.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in both the meatballs and the gravy. Adding a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the meatball mixture can give it an extra layer of flavor.
• Make Ahead: These Salisbury steak meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth to loosen up the gravy if needed.

Why You’ll Love Salisbury Steak Meatballs:

• Comforting and Hearty: The savory beef meatballs and rich gravy bring the classic flavors of Salisbury steak in a more fun and accessible form.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs are great for making in bulk and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the deliciously juicy meatballs and flavorful gravy, making them a hit at family dinners.
• Versatile: Serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, or even make a sandwich with crusty bread and enjoy a Salisbury steak meatball sub.

Conclusion:

Salisbury Steak Meatballs bring all the comforting flavors of the classic dish in a new and delicious form. These tender meatballs, simmered in a savory gravy, are the perfect meal for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests. With their rich flavors, satisfying texture, and versatile serving options, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Give this easy and comforting dish a try, and enjoy the deliciousness that comes with every bite!