If you have a craving for a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely must try The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe. This dish combines tender, flavorful meatballs seasoned just right, bathed in a rich, silky mushroom gravy that elevates every bite to pure comfort food bliss. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, this recipe promises to satisfy and impress with its perfect blend of savory goodness and homestyle charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from giving the meatballs their perfect texture to creating that luscious, velvety mushroom gravy.
- Ground beef: The star protein, providing rich flavor and juiciness to the meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together while keeping them tender.
- Egg: Acts as a natural binder for the meat mixture.
- Milk: Adds moisture and softness to the meatballs.
- Worcestershire sauce: Imparts a depth of umami and a slight tang to enhance the beef flavor.
- Ketchup: Balances sweetness with a hint of acidity, perfect in the meatballs and gravy.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness and complexity to the seasoning mix.
- Garlic powder: For that warm, aromatic punch without overpowering.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory base with gentle sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together harmoniously.
- Olive oil: For browning the meatballs with a lovely golden crust.
- Sliced mushrooms: The star ingredient in the gravy, lending earthiness and body.
- Butter: Creates richness and depth when cooking mushrooms and making the roux.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the gravy to that perfect, silky consistency.
- Beef broth: Provides a robust base for the gravy, intensifying the savory notes.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and texture to the mushroom gravy.
- Fresh thyme: Brings an aromatic, herby touch to brighten the sauce.
- Fresh parsley: Finishes the dish with a pop of color and fresh flavor.
How to Make The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors without overworking the meat, which keeps your meatballs tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape and Brown the Meatballs
Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides until they have a beautiful golden crust. This step locks in flavor and texture, giving each meatball a delightful exterior.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Onions
With the meatballs temporarily removed, melt butter in the same skillet. Add sliced mushrooms and chopped onions, cooking gently until softened and fragrant. Their natural sweetness will form the flavorful base of the mushroom gravy.
Step 4: Make the Mushroom Gravy
Sprinkle flour over the softened mushrooms and onions, stirring constantly to cook out the raw taste for about one minute. Gradually whisk in beef broth to create a smooth sauce. Add fresh thyme, then bring the mixture to a simmer where the gravy will thicken and intensify in flavor.
Step 5: Simmer Meatballs in Gravy
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the gravy. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through while absorbing the wonderful mushroom-infused sauce.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Just before serving, stir in freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish and fresh herbal note that elevates the entire dish.
How to Serve The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top not only adds a lovely pop of green but also a fresh burst of flavor that balances the richness of the gravy. If you like, a dollop of sour cream on the side can add a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.
Side Dishes
These meatballs with mushroom gravy are absolute perfection served over creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the luscious gravy to soak in perfectly. For a different vibe, buttered egg noodles or fluffy white rice work splendidly, soaking up every savory drop and making sure nothing goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, plate the meatballs atop a bed of whipped garlic mashed potatoes, drizzle extra mushroom gravy around, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for elegance. You can also serve them family-style in a large cast-iron skillet right at the table, inviting everyone to dig in and indulge together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any remaining Salisbury steak meatballs and gravy to an airtight container. They keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for easy lunches or next-day dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked meatballs and mushroom gravy separately or together for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are cooled completely before freezing and store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the gravy stays smooth. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slow reheating helps maintain the perfect sauce texture and moist meatballs.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! For a lighter twist on The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe, substitute ground turkey or chicken. Just be mindful that these leaner meats dry out faster, so slightly reduce cooking time and consider adding a bit of olive oil or an extra egg for moisture.
How do I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
If your mushroom gravy is too thin, simply whisk in a little more flour or let it simmer a bit longer uncovered until it reaches the desired thickness. To thin it out, add a splash of beef broth or water gradually while stirring.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix and shape the meatballs up to a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to brown and simmer in the gravy. This helps save time on the day you want to serve them.
What can I use as a side other than potatoes or noodles?
Roasted vegetables like green beans or asparagus make wonderful sides that add color and a fresh bite to balance the hearty meatballs and gravy. A crisp green salad is also a great pairing for a lighter feel.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe reheats beautifully and makes for a satisfying meal prep option. Package portions with starches and veggies for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that comforts, delights, and brings everyone to the table with smiles. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers the kind of hearty, homemade flavor that stays in your heart long after the last bite. Give it a go and enjoy every delicious moment!
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The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This recipe for The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy features tender ground beef meatballs simmered in a rich, savory mushroom and onion gravy flavored with fresh thyme and parsley. Perfectly browned and cooked stovetop, these meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a comforting American main course dinner.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Mushroom Gravy
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently just until combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Form and Brown Meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, ensuring a nice crust forms, then transfer them to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook until they soften and release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Simmer with Broth and Herbs: Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth. Add fresh thyme leaves and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Meatballs in Gravy: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and cook over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes until meatballs are fully cooked and gravy has thickened.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in chopped fresh parsley to brighten the flavor. Serve the meatballs hot with mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a complete meal.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meatballs.
- Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Fresh thyme can be substituted with dried thyme if necessary, using about 1/3 the amount.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
