There’s something deeply comforting about Salisbury meatballs served over creamy mashed potatoes. This dish brings together tender, flavorful meatballs and rich gravy with smooth, buttery potatoes for a meal that feels like home. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners, this recipe delivers warmth, satisfaction, and classic flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is hearty, simple, and incredibly satisfying. The meatballs are juicy and well-seasoned, the gravy is savory and comforting, and the mashed potatoes are creamy without being heavy. Everything comes together on the stovetop, making it approachable even on hectic days. It’s a timeless meal that pleases both adults and kids, and it reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Salisbury meatballs
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
For the gravy
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
For the mashed potatoes
2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and set them aside.
Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering broth and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Return the meatballs to the skillet and gently coat them with the gravy. Let them simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors can meld.
While the meatballs simmer, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well.
Add the milk, butter, salt, and black pepper to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Serve the meatballs over the mashed potatoes, spooning extra gravy on top.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time is approximately 20 minutes.
Cook time is about 30 minutes.
Total time is around 50 minutes.
Variations
You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version of the meatballs.
Add chopped fresh chives or parsley to the mashed potatoes for extra freshness.
For richer potatoes, replace part of the milk with cream.
Add a pinch of onion powder or garlic powder to the gravy for deeper flavor.
Mix a small amount of grated cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the meatballs and potatoes moist.
The meatballs can also be frozen in their gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I freeze this dish?
The meatballs and gravy freeze very well. Mashed potatoes can be frozen too, though their texture may change slightly.
How do I keep the meatballs tender?
Avoid overmixing the meat mixture and cook the meatballs gently over medium heat.
Can I make the mashed potatoes smoother?
Yes, warming the milk and butter before adding them helps create a smoother texture.
What potatoes work best for mashing?
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes give the creamiest results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this meal?
Yes, serve with green beans, peas, or carrots on the side.
How thick should the gravy be?
The gravy should lightly coat the meatballs without being overly thick. You can adjust with more broth if needed.
Can I cook the meatballs in the oven?
Yes, bake them at 200°C (400°F) for about 18 to 20 minutes, then finish them in the gravy.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, the flavors are mild, comforting, and generally well-loved by children.
Conclusion
Salisbury meatballs and mashed potatoes are the definition of comfort food. This recipe brings together familiar flavors, simple ingredients, and a cozy homemade feel that makes any meal special. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish offers warmth, satisfaction, and timeless appeal in every serving.
Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender, flavorful meatballs coated in savory gravy, served over creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Perfect for family dinners or weeknight comfort meals.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, and parsley. Mix gently.
Shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned. Remove and set aside.
Pour beef broth into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up browned bits.
Mix cornstarch with water and stir into broth. Cook 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Return meatballs to the skillet and coat with gravy. Simmer 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, boil potatoes in a pot of water 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain.
Add milk, butter, salt, and black pepper to potatoes and mash until smooth.
Serve meatballs over mashed potatoes, spooning extra gravy on top.
Notes
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of meatballs.
Add fresh chives or parsley to mashed potatoes for freshness.
Replace part of milk with cream for richer potatoes.
Add onion or garlic powder to gravy for extra flavor.
Mix a small amount of cheese into mashed potatoes for creamier texture.
