Name: Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup finely diced onion; 2 cloves garlic minced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion sliced; 2 tablespoons all purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Salisbury Steak Meatballs bring all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of classic American comfort food into a bite-sized, family-friendly dish. Juicy beef meatballs are simmered in a rich onion gravy and served over buttery mashed potatoes for a dinner that feels both hearty and homemade. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and brings everyone to the table without a second call.

This recipe takes the traditional Salisbury steak and transforms it into tender, flavorful meatballs that cook faster and soak up even more of that savory brown gravy. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a relaxed Sunday meal, these meatballs deliver big flavor with simple pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Deep, savory flavor from seasoned ground beef and caramelized onions
Rich homemade gravy that tastes like it simmered all day
Perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles
Family-approved comfort food that’s easy to make
Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully

What Makes Salisbury Steak Meatballs So Flavorful?

The secret to incredible Salisbury Steak Meatballs is the balance of ingredients in both the meat mixture and the gravy. A combination of Worcestershire sauce, onion, and simple seasonings gives the meatballs that signature savory depth.

The gravy, made with beef broth and sautéed onions, thickens into a silky sauce that coats every bite. When simmered together, the flavors meld into a dish that tastes classic, comforting, and unmistakably American.

Ingredients for the Salisbury Steak Meatballs

These ingredients work together to create tender meatballs and a bold, savory gravy that defines this dish.

Ground Beef
The heart of the recipe. Use 80/20 ground beef for juicy, flavorful meatballs.

Breadcrumbs
Help bind the mixture and keep the meatballs tender rather than dense.

Egg
Acts as a binder, holding everything together while keeping the texture soft.

Onion
Adds sweetness and depth to both the meatballs and the gravy.

Garlic
Enhances the savory profile and gives warmth to the overall flavor.

Worcestershire Sauce
Provides that classic Salisbury steak tang and umami richness.

Beef Broth
Forms the base of the gravy and intensifies the meaty flavor.

Flour
Thickens the gravy into a smooth, velvety sauce.

Salt and Black Pepper
Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the beef.

Fresh Parsley
Adds a pop of color and light freshness at the end.

How To Make the Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Making this dish is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for perfectly tender meatballs and a silky onion gravy.

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Form into evenly sized meatballs.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until softened and lightly caramelized. This builds the base flavor for the gravy.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir to coat. Gradually add beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Simmer until thickened.

Step 5: Simmer Everything Together

Return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and infused with gravy flavor.

Serving and Storing Salisbury Steak Meatballs

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Serve the meatballs generously spooned over creamy mashed potatoes for a traditional comfort meal.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep the gravy smooth. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs and gravy for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Pairing the right sides turns this into a complete and satisfying dinner.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate companion for soaking up rich brown gravy.

Scalloped Potatoes

Layered and cheesy, they add a decadent twist to your plate.

Steamed Green Beans

Fresh and slightly crisp, they balance the richness of the meat.

Roasted Carrots

Sweet and caramelized carrots complement the savory flavors.

Buttered Egg Noodles

A quick and comforting alternative to mashed potatoes.

Classic Dinner Rolls

Perfect for sopping up every last drop of gravy.

Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Salisbury Steak Meatballs, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy favorites:

The Best Meatloaf Recipe for another classic beef dinner packed with flavor.
Ground Beef Stroganoff when you’re craving creamy, savory comfort in one pan.
Crockpot Swiss Steaks for a slow-cooked, fork-tender beef option.
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole for a hearty family-style meal.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes when you want rich flavor with minimal effort.