Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe offers tender meatballs, a savory mushroom gravy, and classic flavors in a single pan. It is filling, adaptable, and pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a reliable option for regular meal planning.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs in Rich Mushroom Gravy: A Comforting Classic Reimagined
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Tender beef meatballs inspired by classic Salisbury steak, simmered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy for a comforting and hearty main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently.
- Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and sauté mushrooms and onion until softened and lightly browned.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup until smooth.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until cooked through and the gravy thickens.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat to keep meatballs tender.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Gravy thickens more as it cools.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef forms the base of the meatballs. It provides richness and a hearty texture that holds up well during simmering.
Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs while keeping them tender and moist.
Egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape.
Milk adds moisture to the meat mixture, preventing dryness.
Onion contributes sweetness and depth. Finely chopped onion blends seamlessly into both meatballs and gravy.
Garlic enhances the savory profile and adds warmth to the dish.
Salt balances and sharpens the overall flavor.
Black pepper adds mild heat and complexity.
Worcestershire sauce delivers umami and classic Salisbury steak flavor.
Butter provides richness and forms the base of the gravy.
Mushrooms add earthiness and texture, making the gravy robust and satisfying.
All-purpose flour thickens the gravy to a smooth, velvety consistency.
Beef broth builds depth and creates a savory sauce.
Ketchup adds subtle sweetness and tang, a signature element of Salisbury steak.
Directions
Begin by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce in a mixing bowl. Gently mix until just combined, then shape into evenly sized meatballs. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced mushrooms and remaining onion. Cook until softened and lightly browned. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a roux. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring until smooth. Mix in the ketchup and allow the gravy to simmer until thickened. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer gently until cooked through and coated in sauce. Serve warm.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 to 5 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes. Total time is roughly 50 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a small amount of broth if needed to loosen the gravy.
Variations and Customizations
Turkey meatballs version
Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option while maintaining flavor.
Creamy mushroom gravy
Add a small amount of cream for extra richness.
Onion-forward style
Increase the onion quantity for a deeper, sweeter gravy.
Low-carb option
Serve over cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.
Herb-enhanced meatballs
Add parsley or thyme for extra aroma.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
What is the best side dish?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles pair perfectly.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to two months.
Do the meatballs stay tender?
Yes, the milk and breadcrumbs ensure tenderness.
Can I use pre-made meatballs?
Homemade is best, but pre-made can be used in a pinch.
How do I thicken the gravy more?
Simmer uncovered or add a small flour slurry.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, peas or carrots work well.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and comforting.
What mushrooms work best?
Button or cremini mushrooms are ideal.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily for larger servings.
Conclusion
Salisbury Steak Meatballs in Rich Mushroom Gravy is a comforting, satisfying dish that delivers classic flavors in a practical, modern format. With tender meatballs and a deeply savory sauce, it is a recipe that brings warmth and reliability to any table.
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