Salisbury Steak Meatballs – a delightful recipe crafted with meticulous attention to satisfy any savory craving. This meatball variant calls upon the rich, sumptuous flavors of Salisbury steak and encapsulates them into succulent, easy-to-serve meatballs. What sets this recipe apart is its combination of simple pantry staples transformed through a methodical cooking process that enhances the flavors and textures of the dish.
Growing up in a family that adored hearty, comforting dishes, Salisbury Steak Meatballs became a beloved recipe at our dinner table. The recipe dates back to my grandmother who often prepared these meatballs during chilly winter evenings. Each bite was a memory, and every scent that filled the kitchen was a promise of a warm, delicious meal waiting to be savored. This dish has not only been a family favorite but also became a therapeutic venture into the past, reminding me of the bustling kitchen, laughter, and the love that simmered with every meal prepared.
Why You’ll Love This Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
– Rich and Flavorful: These meatballs are drenched in a glossy, delectable sauce that capture the classic essence of a traditional Salisbury steak.
– Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and a clear method, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
– Versatile: Serve them with mashed potatoes, over pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
– Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze beautifully, making them a fantastic option for future no-fuss meals.
Ingredient Notes
– Flour: Helps thicken the sauce, providing a rich consistency that clings to the meatballs.
– Red Wine Vinegar: Adds a hint of tanginess that balances the richness of the broth and beef.
– Beef Broth: Used divided. Part of it aids in the sauce’s formation while the remainder moistens the meat mix, enhancing flavor.
– Worcestershire Sauce: Infuses a deep umami touch that is quintessential to Salisbury steak.
– Ground Mustard: Offers a mild heat and complexity to the overall taste profile.
– Sliced Mushrooms: These add texture and earthiness, soaking up the sauce and complementing the meat.
– Chopped Onions: Sautéed to enhance their sweetness, lending a foundational flavor layer.
– Olive Oil: Used for cooking mushrooms and meatballs, ensuring they are deliciously seared.
– Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs while ensuring they remain tender.
– Tomato Paste: Intensifies the sauce with a rich tomato flavor, slightly thickened for body.
– Lean Ground Beef: Forms the substantial base of the meatballs, offering meaty succulence.
– Salt and Pepper: Basics for seasoning throughout cooking to amplify the flavors naturally.
How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
– Step 1: Sauté Onions
Begin by heating a teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent.
– Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine half of the sautéed onions with flour, Worcestershire sauce, one cup beef broth, ground mustard, a tablespoon of tomato paste, and red wine vinegar. Whisk well and set aside.
– Step 3: Mix the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix together lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, a tablespoon of tomato paste, remaining beef broth, the rest of the onions, and season with salt and pepper. Knead the mixture with your hands until well combined, then form into 20 meatballs.
– Step 4: Sear the Meatballs
Use the remaining olive oil to sear the meatballs in a skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure they are evenly browned on all sides.
– Step 5: Cook with Mushrooms and Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low, add sliced mushrooms and the prepared sauce to the skillet with meatballs. Mix gently to combine.
– Step 6: Simmer to Finish
Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer for 6-8 minutes, or until the sauce thickens properly.
Storage Options
To maximize freshness, store leftover Salisbury steak meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag where they can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, perhaps adding a splash of broth if needed.
Variations and Substitutions
– Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
– Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
– Vegetarian Twist: Try using lentils and mushrooms in place of ground beef for a plant-based version of this recipe.
– Low-Carb Options: Substitute breadcrumbs with rolled oats or crushed pork rinds for a lower carbohydrate content.
What to Serve With Salisbury Steak Meatballs
– Mashed Potatoes: For a classic pairing, creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect bed to soak up the rich sauce.
– Steamed Green Beans: Offer a crisp, fresh contrast to the richness of the meatballs.
– Garlic Bread: Ideal for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
– Cucumber Salad: Provides a refreshing, tangy side that cuts through the dish’s savory depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I make Salisbury steak meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs and sauce, then refrigerate overnight to enhance the flavors. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
– Are Salisbury steak meatballs suitable for freezing?
Yes, these meatballs freeze very well. Once cooled, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
– What makes Salisbury steak meatballs different from regular meatballs?
The distinctive sauce, rich in Worcestershire and mustard, sets them apart with a bold, umami-packed profile.
– Can I use turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes, turkey can be a lighter substitute though it may slightly alter the flavor and fat content.
After indulging in this Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe, expect afull symphony of flavors with every forkful—tender, juicy meatballs cloaked in a savory, thick sauce, with hints of tang and umami. Beyond satisfying your taste buds, this dish is a comforting staple that promises to transport you back to nostalgic moments or help create new memories.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped divided
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth divided
- 1/2 tsp ground mustard
- 2 tbsp tomato paste divided
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Meatballs
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until soft and translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, Worcestershire sauce, half of the sautéed onions, 1 cup beef broth, ground mustard, 1 tbsp tomato paste, and red wine vinegar. Whisk well and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, remaining tomato paste, remaining beef broth, remaining sautéed onions, salt, and pepper. Form into 20 meatballs.
- Sear meatballs in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat until evenly browned.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add sliced mushrooms and prepared sauce to the skillet with meatballs. Mix gently to combine.
- Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer for 6-8 minutes, or until the sauce thickens properly.