Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. This dish features tender meatballs infused with rich flavors, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes that make every bite satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. The fun-sized meatballs add a playful element, making it suitable for both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just about 50 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of savory meatballs in rich gravy paired with creamy mashed potatoes delivers unforgettable taste.
- Versatile Dish: Great for dinner parties, family meals, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
- Kid-Friendly: Bite-sized meatballs are perfect for little hands, making mealtime enjoyable for children.
- Hearty and Filling: This meal is sure to satisfy your hunger and keep you feeling full longer.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather all necessary tools to streamline your process. Having the right equipment makes cooking more enjoyable!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without spills.
- Skillet: Perfectly cooks meatballs evenly while allowing for easy gravy preparation.
- Potato masher: Ensures smooth and creamy mashed potatoes without lumps.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ÂĽ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk
- ÂĽ cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ÂĽ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
How to Make Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ÂĽ cup milk
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Mix well until evenly combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the meatballs in batches, turning them to brown all sides. Cook for about 7-8 minutes or until fully cooked through. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
-
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
-
Add thyme (if using) and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer the gravy until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in gravy. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add:
- ÂĽ cup butter
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
Optional: ÂĽ cup sour cream for extra creaminess
-
Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Serve
Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates and top with Salisbury meatballs smothered in gravy. Garnish with parsley if desired, then serve immediately!
How to Serve Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Serving Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes is all about creating a comforting and satisfying experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Classic Plate Presentation
- Use a large plate to serve a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes topped with hearty Salisbury meatballs. Drizzle the rich gravy over both for a mouthwatering look.
Garnish for Color
- Fresh parsley or chives can add a pop of color. Simply sprinkle them over the meatballs and mashed potatoes before serving for an attractive touch.
Family-Style Serving
- Place the meatballs and gravy in a large serving bowl alongside a platter of mashed potatoes. Let everyone serve themselves for a warm, inviting dining experience.
Bread on the Side
- Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious gravy. This adds texture and makes the meal even more filling.
Pair with Vegetables
- Add a side of steamed green beans or sautéed broccoli. These vegetables not only provide color but also balance the richness of the meatballs and mashed potatoes.
Enjoy with a Salad
- A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette can offer freshness to your meal, complementing the hearty flavors of Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes.

How to Perfect Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes recipe, consider these helpful tips.
- Use lean ground beef: Opting for 80% lean ground beef ensures juicy meatballs without excessive fat.
- Don’t skip browning: Browning the meatballs enhances their flavor. Make sure to cook them until they are golden brown on all sides.
- Whisk gravy slowly: When making gravy, whisk in the broth gradually to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Season well: Taste your gravy before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for maximum flavor.
- Rest the mashed potatoes: Allowing your mashed potatoes to sit covered for a few minutes after mashing helps them maintain warmth.
- Experiment with add-ins: Mixing in roasted garlic or cheese into your mashed potatoes can elevate their creaminess and flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Pairing additional side dishes with your meal can create a more balanced dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread brushed with garlic butter complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant vegetable provides nutrients and balances out the dish’s richness.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots add delightful contrast when roasted until tender.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the heaviness of meatballs.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds texture and pairs well with creamy dishes like mashed potatoes.
- Baked Beans: Their sweet and smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with savory Salisbury meatballs.
- Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed in light dressing bring freshness, making each bite lighter.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad can be an alternative for those who adore all things potato!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to properly season their meatballs and gravy. Always taste your mixture before cooking and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many meatballs at once can lead to steaming instead of browning. Fry in batches for the best results.
- Not letting the gravy thicken: If you rush this step, you may end up with a watery sauce. Allow enough time for the gravy to simmer and reach the right consistency.
- Under-mashing the potatoes: For creamy mashed potatoes, thoroughly mash them until there are no lumps. Add warm milk and butter gradually for the best texture.
- Ignoring resting time: Letting the meatballs sit in the gravy allows them to absorb more flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes in airtight containers.
- They will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
Freezing Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Freeze meatballs and mashed potatoes separately for best results.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs and mashed potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water, then reheat meatballs and mashed potatoes until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes recipe.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative, but it may require additional seasoning to enhance flavor.
How do I make my mashed potatoes creamier?
Add warm milk and butter gradually while mashing, and consider using sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make both components ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What sides go well with Salisbury meatballs?
Besides mashed potatoes, consider serving steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, both Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes freeze well when stored properly!
Final Thoughts
The Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes recipe is a delightful combination that brings comfort food to your dinner table. It’s versatile enough to customize with different herbs or spices based on your preference. Try this recipe, experiment with ingredients, and enjoy a cozy meal that everyone will love!
Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a comforting dish that brings together tender, flavorful meatballs smothered in rich gravy, paired with creamy mashed potatoes. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe evokes warmth and nostalgia.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ÂĽ cup milk
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ teaspoon thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk
- ÂĽ cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ÂĽ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for about 7-8 minutes until fully cooked. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until golden. Stir in flour; gradually whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
- Return meatballs to the skillet to coat in gravy.
- Boil cubed potatoes until tender; drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and optional sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying and Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg







