Name: Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped; 3 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)

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🍽️ Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes 🥔

1. Introduction

If you’re craving hearty comfort food that satisfies every time, this salisbury steak meatballs recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender beef meatballs simmered in a savory gravy, served alongside velvety, fragrant garlic herb mashed potatoes. This dish combines juicy, flavorful beef with a creamy, buttery mashed potato base, perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests. As someone who’s tested countless recipes, I can assure you—this dish hits all the right notes for a rich, satisfying experience.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 40 minutes — perfect for weeknights when time is limited.

Hearty and comforting — the ultimate comfort food combo.
One-pan cooking for the meatballs — easy cleanup and flavor infusion.
Versatile and customizable — use gluten-free bread crumbs or plant-based meat alternatives if needed.

3. Ingredient Notes

The quality of ingredients makes a real difference in this recipe. For the beef meatballs, opt for ground beef with a fat content of around 80-85%—this ensures juicy, flavorful meatballs. Fresh garlic, finely chopped, adds aromatic depth, while fresh herbs like thyme and parsley brighten the dish. For the mashed potatoes, russet potatoes are ideal because of their fluffy texture, while cream and butter create that luscious creaminess. Use high-quality butter and double-check the freshness of your herbs for maximum flavor.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this dish seamlessly, a few trusty tools are essential. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes crispy meatballs easily, with less oil and fuss. A good T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures your pans are durable and easy to clean, perfect for browning and simmering. And for the silky smooth mashed potatoes, a stand mixer like the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer can whip things into perfection, although a simple potato masher works just as well.

5. How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently—overmixing can toughen the meat. Form into 1–1.5 inch meatballs. In a skillet or the air fryer, cook the meatballs until browned and cooked through—about 10 minutes in the air fryer at 375°F or 15 minutes in a skillet over medium heat. Look for a crispy exterior with a juicy interior.

Make the Savory Gravy

In the same pan, add a splash of broth and scrape up browned bits, then stir in a bit of flour to thicken. Pour in beef broth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and simmer until thickened. The gravy should be rich and velvety, coating the meatballs beautifully.

Prepare the Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

While the meatballs simmer, peel and chop the russet potatoes. Boil until tender—about 15 minutes—then drain and return to the pot. Add warm cream, melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped herbs like thyme and parsley. Mash until smooth and fluffy, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The garlic and herbs add fragrant, savory notes that bring the dish to life.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture—this keeps them tender and juicy.
Use luxurious butter and fresh herbs for the mashed potatoes—these small details elevate the dish.

Crisp the meatballs in the air fryer or skillet for the best texture.
Simmer the gravy gently to prevent it from breaking—stir regularly and avoid high heat.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re looking for dietary adaptations, try making vegetarian “meatballs” with plant-based beef alternatives. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free options. Want extra flavor? Add caramelized onions or a dash of smoky paprika. For a lighter meal, serve the gravy over roasted vegetables instead of mashed potatoes.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious upon reheating.

9. FAQ

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! Shape the meatballs and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. You can also prepare the gravy and mashed potatoes ahead, then reheat before serving.

What’s the best way to ensure the mashed potatoes are creamy?

Use warm cream and melted butter, and mash the potatoes while they’re still hot. For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese.

Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the meatballs on a baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Replace regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure any broth used is marked gluten-free.

10. Conclusion

There you have it—an effortless and flavorful recipe for salisbury steak meatballs with creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes. This dish delivers comforting, savory flavors in every bite, perfect for your next family dinner or special occasion. With simple ingredients and handy kitchen tools, you can enjoy hearty homemade comfort food that will impress everyone at the table. Give it a try and savor each delicious mouthful!

Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Creamy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes