Salisbury steak meatballs

Introduction:

Salisbury steak meatballs offer a delightful twist on the classic comfort food favorite. These tender and flavorful meatballs, smothered in a rich onion gravy, evoke the nostalgic flavors of Salisbury steak while adding a modern twist. In this article, we’ll explore the appeal of Salisbury steak meatballs, share a delicious recipe, and provide tips for making this comforting dish at home.

Ingredients:

For the meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

For the meatballs:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.

For the gravy:

1. In the same skillet used to cook the meatballs, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk until smooth, cooking for about 1 minute to create a roux.
2. Slowly pour the beef broth into the skillet, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add the Worcestershire sauce and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembly:

1. Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the gravy, turning them to coat evenly.
2. Simmer the meatballs in the gravy for a few minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
4. These Salisbury steak meatballs are sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Enjoy the savory flavor and comforting warmth of this classic dish!

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Over Mashed Potatoes: For a classic presentation, serve Salisbury steak meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The rich gravy pairs perfectly with the fluffy texture of the potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
2. Pair with Egg Noodles: Alternatively, serve the meatballs and gravy over cooked egg noodles for a hearty and filling dish. The noodles absorb the flavors of the gravy, enhancing the overall dining experience.
3. Accompany with Steamed Vegetables: Balance the richness of the meatballs and gravy by serving them alongside steamed vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or broccoli. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors of the vegetables complement the savory meatballs.
4. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish the Salisbury steak meatballs with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This adds visual appeal to the dish and elevates its presentation.
5. Family-Style Serving: Arrange the meatballs and gravy in a large serving dish and place it at the center of the table for a family-style dining experience. Provide serving utensils so that everyone can help themselves to their desired portion.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: If you have leftover Salisbury steak meatballs, transfer them to an airtight container or storage dish and refrigerate them promptly. They should be stored within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness.
2. Consume Within 3-4 Days: Salisbury steak meatballs will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Beyond this time frame, the quality may begin to decline, and it is best to discard any remaining leftovers.
3. Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to extend the shelf life of the meatballs, consider freezing them. Place the cooled meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and label with the date. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
4. Thaw Before Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen Salisbury steak meatballs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on the microwave. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
5. Refresh as Needed: If the gravy thickens upon reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out to the desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

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