The Best Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Rich Mushroom Gravy

The Best Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Rich Mushroom Gravy are tender, flavorful meatballs smothered in a savory brown gravy loaded with mushrooms and onions. It’s a comforting, stick-to-your-ribs meal that brings all the classic Salisbury steak flavors into a fun, bite-sized version that I love serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish turns classic comfort food into a cozy, meatball-style dinner that’s both easy and delicious. The meatballs are juicy and seasoned just right, and the mushroom gravy is rich, silky, and packed with umami flavor. It’s a one-pan meal that feels like something I could get at a diner, but it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatballs:

• Ground beef

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Egg

• Breadcrumbs

• Worcestershire sauce

• Dijon mustard

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Oil (for browning)

For the mushroom gravy:

• Butter

• Mushrooms (cremini or white), sliced

• Onion, thinly sliced

• Garlic, minced

• All-purpose flour

• Beef broth

• Worcestershire sauce

• Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Make the meatballs:

1. I combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

2. I mix until just combined and roll the mixture into meatballs (about 1½ inches in size).

3. I heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the meatballs on all sides, then transfer them to a plate. I don’t cook them through yet.

Make the gravy:

4. In the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté the sliced onions and mushrooms until softened and browned, about 8–10 minutes.

5. I add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

6. I sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to coat the vegetables. I cook it for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

7. I gradually whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring until the mixture is smooth.

8. I bring the gravy to a simmer, then return the meatballs to the pan.

9. I reduce the heat and let everything simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the gravy has thickened.

10. I taste and adjust the seasoning, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for dinner any day of the week.

Variations

 I’ve added a splash of cream to the gravy for a silkier texture or stirred in a little balsamic vinegar for depth. If I want to lighten it up, I use ground turkey and serve it over cauliflower mash.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if it thickens. These meatballs also freeze well—just cool completely, store in an airtight container, and thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of browning them?

Yes, I’ve baked them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes until browned, then added them to the gravy to finish cooking.

What’s the best side dish for this recipe?

Mashed potatoes are my go-to, but I also love serving them over buttered egg noodles, rice, or even mashed cauliflower.

Can I make the gravy without mushrooms?

Yes, I just leave them out and add a bit more onion or some finely chopped celery for texture. The gravy still turns out rich and delicious.

Why are my meatballs dry?

That usually happens if they’re overmixed or overcooked. I mix the ingredients gently and simmer just until they’re cooked through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I’ve made the meatballs and gravy a day in advance and just reheated everything together. It actually tastes even better the next day.

Conclusion

The Best Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Rich Mushroom Gravy take all the classic flavors I love and turn them into a simple, satisfying meal. It’s warm, filling, and easy enough for a weeknight, but tasty enough to serve to guests. Whether I pair it with mashed potatoes or noodles, this dish always feels like true comfort food.

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