Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic dish, combining tender meatballs with a rich mushroom and onion sauce. This versatile recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. The meatballs are baked to perfection and can be served over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Enjoy these flavorful meatballs that are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these Salisbury Steak Meatballs come together quickly.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of beef, garlic, and Italian seasoning brings rich flavors to your plate.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or serve over zucchini noodles for a healthy twist.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family meals.
- Gluten-Free Option: Using almond meal instead of breadcrumbs makes this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of Salisbury Steak Meatballs, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked meatballs.
- Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the sauce to develop rich flavors.

Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef, lean
- 1/3 cup almond meal for gluten-free/low-carb version (or breadcrumbs if preferred)
- 1/3 cup chopped parsley
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup yellow onion, sliced ¼ inch thick
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (more for garnish)
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar (Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt and pepper
How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatball ingredients:
1. Add ground beef.
2. Stir in almond meal.
3. Mix in chopped parsley and finely chopped onion.
4. Incorporate egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Using a 1½-inch scoop:
* Form meatballs from the mixture.
* Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
* Bake for 15–20 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
While the meatballs bake:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown (about 8–10 minutes).
3. Remove mushrooms from skillet; set aside.
Step 5: Cook Onions and Garlic
Reduce heat to medium-high:
1. Add butter and sliced yellow onions to the skillet.
2. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until onions become translucent.
3. Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Create the Sauce
Add remaining sauce ingredients:
1. Pour in beef broth along with fresh parsley, Worcestershire sauce (or balsamic vinegar), Italian seasoning, cooked mushrooms, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat slightly and let it thicken (about 5 minutes).
Step 7: Combine Meatballs with Sauce
Gently add baked meatballs into the skillet:
* Simmer together for about 5 minutes so that flavors meld.
Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley over your choice of side! Enjoy these flavorful Salisbury Steak Meatballs at your next meal!
How to Serve Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a lighter option, these meatballs can adapt to your preferences. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the savory meatballs and their rich sauce.
With Pasta
- Serve the meatballs over your favorite pasta. The sauce clings beautifully to noodles, making every bite flavorful.
On Rice
- A bed of fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious mushroom and onion sauce, adding a delightful texture.
In Zucchini Noodles
- For a low-carb alternative, serve the meatballs on spiralized zucchini noodles. This option is light yet satisfying.
As Sliders
- Make mini sandwiches using sliders to offer a fun twist for gatherings. Pair with fresh veggies for crunch.
With a Salad
- A crisp green salad balances the richness of the meatballs and adds freshness to your meal.
How to Perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Creating tender and flavorful Salisbury Steak Meatballs requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time.
- Use lean ground beef – Opting for lean ground beef will keep the meatballs moist without excess fat.
- Don’t overmix – Mixing just until combined prevents tough meatballs; overworking the mixture can lead to density.
- Chill before baking – Letting the formed meatballs chill in the fridge for 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while baking.
- Monitor baking time – Check internal temperature to avoid overcooking; they should reach 165°F for safety but remain juicy.
- Experiment with seasonings – Feel free to adjust herbs and spices based on your taste preferences for unique flavors.
- Serve immediately – Enjoy these meatballs warm, as they are best right after cooking when they’re at their juiciest.
Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Complementing your Salisbury Steak Meatballs with delicious side dishes enhances the overall meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with this dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition alongside the meatballs.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch and vibrant color, balancing the dish’s richness.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice flavored with herbs complements the flavors of the meatball sauce beautifully.
- Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb alternative, cauliflower mash mimics traditional mashed potatoes while being lighter.
- Mixed Green Salad – Fresh greens tossed with vinaigrette provide brightness and acidity, cutting through richness.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs well with savory dishes, adding a delightful sweetness each bite.
- Buttered Noodles – Simple buttered noodles serve as an easy side that can absorb sauces well without overpowering flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salisbury Steak Meatballs, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.
- Boldly skip the mixing: Not combining ingredients well can lead to uneven flavors. Ensure everything is mixed thoroughly for consistent taste.
- Boldly overbake the meatballs: Baking them too long can dry them out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and check early!
- Boldly neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning the sauce can make it bland. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to enhance flavors.
- Boldly choosing the wrong broth: Using a low-quality broth may affect the sauce’s flavor. Opt for a rich, flavorful beef broth for the best results.
- Boldly forgetting to garnish: Skipping fresh parsley can make your dish look less appealing. Always add a sprinkle on top before serving for color and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, checking every minute until warm.
- Stovetop: Simmer in sauce over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions you might have about Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
What are Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are tender ground beef meatballs seasoned with herbs and spices, served in a savory mushroom and onion sauce. They are perfect over mashed potatoes or pasta.
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey can be used as a lean alternative while still providing great flavor in your Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Salisbury Steak Meatballs gluten-free, substitute almond meal for breadcrumbs and ensure you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
Can I add vegetables to the meatball mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in grated carrots or chopped bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor in your meatballs.
How long does it take to prepare Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
The total time from prep to serving these delicious meatballs is approximately 36 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option.
Final Thoughts
Salisbury Steak Meatballs offer a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Their versatility allows you to serve them over various bases like mashed potatoes, rice, or low-carb options like zucchini noodles. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or vegetables for an extra touch!
Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delightful reimagining of the classic dish, blending juicy beef meatballs with a robust mushroom and onion sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. The meatballs are baked until tender and pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. With rich flavors from garlic and Italian seasonings, these meatballs are sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, lean
- 1/3 cup almond meal for gluten-free/low-carb version (or breadcrumbs if preferred)
- 1/3 cup chopped parsley
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup yellow onion, sliced ¼ inch thick
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (more for garnish)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, almond meal, parsley, onion, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- While meatballs bake, sauté mushrooms in olive oil until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- Cook onions and garlic in butter until translucent; then add beef broth, cooked mushrooms, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer to thicken.
- Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer together for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (about 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg