Salisbury Steak Meatballs: A Comforting Classic
There’s something special about a plate of warm, savory meatballs coated in rich, hearty gravy. Salisbury Steak Meatballs combine the best of both worlds—juicy meatballs with all the comforting flavors of traditional Salisbury steak. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep, this dish is both easy to make and deeply satisfying.
Follow this step-by-step guide to create this delicious recipe, complete with tips, FAQs, and serving suggestions to ensure your meatballs are perfect every time.
Ingredients for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
For the Meatballs
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
- ½ cup Italian bread crumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Gravy
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet dry au jus mix
- ¾ cup water
How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine:
- 2 lbs of ground beef
- 1 packet of dry onion soup mix
- ½ cup of Italian bread crumbs
- ¼ cup of milk
- Use your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
- Shape the meat mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Lightly roll each meatball in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to coat, shaking off any excess.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a golden crust. (They do not need to be cooked through at this stage.)
- Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Gravy
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet of dry au jus mix
- ¾ cup of water
- Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and fully blended.
Step 5: Cook the Meatballs in the Slow Cooker
- Place the browned meatballs into a slow cooker.
- Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook:
- On high for 3-4 hours
- Or on low for 4-5 hours.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Salisbury Steak Meatballs hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.
- Add a side of green beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Even Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to ensure uniform-sized meatballs, which helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the meatballs first locks in the flavor and gives them a nice texture.
- Customize the Gravy: For a richer flavor, substitute beef broth for water in the gravy.
- Thickening Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) and cook until it thickens.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer. Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick future meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Without a Slow Cooker?
Yes! After browning the meatballs, transfer them and the gravy to a large pot or Dutch oven. Simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, though the flavor may be slightly lighter.
3. Can I Freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Yes, this recipe freezes beautifully. Allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
4. What Sides Go Well with This Dish?
Salisbury Steak Meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, egg noodles, or even crusty bread.
5. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
Why You’ll Love Salisbury Steak Meatballs
This recipe combines the best parts of Salisbury steak and meatballs into one hearty dish. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and ideal for feeding a crowd or simply indulging in comfort food. The creamy, savory gravy elevates the tender meatballs, making every bite irresistible.
Try it tonight and enjoy the rich flavors of homemade goodness!