“`html
If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to the ultimate kitchen hero: the Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe. Juicy, perfectly seasoned beef meatballs paired with a luscious mushroom gravy create a harmony of flavors and textures that’s hard to beat. This dish brings all the rich, savory goodness of classic Salisbury steak but in delightful, bite-sized form, making it ideal for a family dinner or a special treat any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret sauce to nailing this dish. Fortunately, everything here is simple, wholesome, and packs a punch on flavor, texture, and color from start to finish.
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds lightness and a tender crumb to the meatballs so they’re never dense.
- 1/2 onion (brown/yellow): Provides a sweet and savory base, finely chopped to melt seamlessly into the meat mixture.
- 500g / 1 lb beef mince: The hearty heart of the dish, choose good quality beef for best flavor.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Just enough garlic to brighten the meatballs with subtle warmth.
- 1 egg: Acts as the perfect binder, keeping your meatballs together without heaviness.
- 1 tbsp ketchup (or Aussie tomato sauce): Adds a tangy sweetness that rounds out the beefy flavors.
- 1 beef bouillon cube, crumbled: Boosts the savory depth and richness in the meatballs.
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami complexity, giving the meatballs an irresistible savoriness.
- 3 tsp Dijon mustard (or 2 tsp dry mustard powder): Sharp and tangy, it brightens and balances the meat mixture beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a gentle fruity note to the mushrooms.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Enriches the mushroom gravy with a silky mouthfeel.
- 250g / 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Earthy mushrooms bring that iconic texture and deepen the gravy flavor.
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt & pepper (for meatballs): Essential for seasoning and making the flavors pop.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for gravy): Adds aromatic depth to the sauce without overpowering.
- 2 cups low sodium beef stock: Forms the rich, savory base of the mushroom gravy.
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt & pepper (for gravy): To taste, bringing the gravy together perfectly.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to luscious, coat-your-spoon perfection.
- 2 tbsp water: Combined with flour to create a smooth slurry for thickening the gravy.
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard: Lends a subtle tang and lifts the gravy’s flavor profile.
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a final umami kick, rounding out the sauce beautifully.
- Mashed potatoes (or rice or pasta): The perfect cozy canvas for the meatballs and gravy to shine.
- Parsley, finely chopped (optional): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a splash of color.
How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining the panko breadcrumbs with a splash of water to let them soak a bit, ensuring a tender crumb. In a large bowl, mix together your ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, crumbled beef bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently combine everything until just mixed—you don’t want to overwork the meat as that could make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Shape and Cook the Meatballs
Take portions of the mixture and roll them carefully into uniform meatballs—about the size of a golf ball works best. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; a nice caramelized crust adds incredible flavor. Once browned, remove the meatballs and set aside to rest while you start the gravy.
Step 3: Make the Mushroom Gravy
In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter and add the sliced mushrooms along with minced garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to turn golden brown, enriching the gravy base with earthy depth. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat everything evenly; this creates the roux to thicken your sauce. Gradually whisk in the beef stock, making sure no lumps remain, then add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Let the gravy simmer gently until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them gently into the mushroom gravy. Cover and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes so the flavors meld and the meatballs finish cooking through. This resting period is where the magic happens—the meatballs soak up the sauce, making every bite moist and savory.
How to Serve Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley not only brightens the dish visually but adds a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the gravy beautifully. Feel free to add a twist with a dash of smoked paprika or a little cracked black pepper if you like a bit more punch.
Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes are the classic companion here, their creamy texture an ideal match for the juicy meatballs and silky mushroom gravy. If you want a switch-up, fluffy rice or buttered noodles also make excellent canvases, soaking up every delightful drop of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and inviting presentation, arrange the meatballs and mushroom gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes on a large platter, then garnish with parsley and a few sautéed mushrooms on top. You can also serve individual portions in deep bowls, perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends. Don’t forget a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots to add color and freshness to the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the meatballs and gravy together so they retain their moisture and flavor. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Place the meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low-medium heat on the stove to prevent the meatballs from drying out. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water or beef stock if the gravy seems too thick. Avoid high heat or the microwave at full power to keep the textures perfect.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for the Salisbury steak meatballs?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional and provides that classic flavor, you can try ground turkey or pork for a lighter variation. Just keep in mind they might need slightly adjusted seasoning to keep the dish flavorful.
What mushrooms work best in the mushroom gravy?
Creamy button mushrooms or white mushrooms are perfect for this recipe due to their mild flavor and texture. You could also mix in cremini or shiitake mushrooms for a deeper, earthier taste.
Is it possible to make the Salisbury Steak Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and shape the meatballs a day ahead and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook. The gravy is best made fresh but can be reheated alongside the meatballs for convenience.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Just ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as some brands contain wheat.
What should I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs besides mashed potatoes?
Rice, egg noodles, buttered pasta, or even creamy polenta make fantastic alternatives. For veggies, roasted carrots, green beans, or a simple salad bring brightness to the plate.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about the Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy Recipe that makes it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a delicious meal, the juicy meatballs coated in rich, flavorful gravy deliver on every level. So, don’t hesitate—grab those simple ingredients and enjoy every delicious bite of this timeless classic made new!
“`
