Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining tender meatballs with a rich mushroom and onion sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings comfort food to the forefront. Versatile in serving options, these meatballs can be paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal. The standout quality of this dish is its flavor-packed profile that will impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavorful Sauce: The savory mushroom and onion sauce elevates the dish, making each bite irresistible.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles to suit any preference.
- Healthy Twist: Using ground beef and gluten-free options like almond meal makes this dish a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze well, making them perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for making Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 1½-inch scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the meatballs and ensures they cook uniformly.
- Skillet: Allows you to sauté vegetables quickly while developing deep flavors in the sauce.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for thoroughly combining all meatball ingredients without mess.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs:
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef, lean
- 1/3 cup almond meal (or breadcrumbs if preferred)
- 1/3 cup chopped parsley
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup yellow onion, sliced ¼ inch thick
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (more for garnish)
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar (Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt and pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all meatball ingredients: ground beef, almond meal (or breadcrumbs), parsley, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatballs
Using a 1½-inch scoop:
1. Form individual meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the lined baking sheet.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until their internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
While the meatballs bake:
1. In a large skillet over high heat, add olive oil.
2. Sauté mushrooms until golden brown (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Remove mushrooms from the pan and set aside; reduce heat to medium-high.
Step 5: Cook Onions and Garlic
Add butter and onions to the skillet:
1. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
Add to the skillet:
1. Beef broth, fresh parsley, Worcestershire sauce (or balsamic vinegar), Italian seasoning, cooked mushrooms, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a simmer; then reduce heat and let it thicken slightly (about 5 minutes).
Step 7: Combine Meatballs with Sauce
Add baked meatballs into the skillet:
1. Coat them in the sauce and let them cook together for about 5 minutes.
2. Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your flavorful Salisbury Steak Meatballs!
How to Serve Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you prefer a classic comfort meal or a low-carb option, these meatballs will surely satisfy your cravings.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a perfect base for the savory meatballs and sauce, allowing every bite to be rich and flavorful.
With Pasta
- Serve the meatballs over your favorite pasta for a hearty meal. The sauce clings beautifully to spaghetti or fettuccine.
On Rice
- A fluffy bed of rice absorbs the delicious mushroom sauce, making it an excellent choice for soaking up all the flavors.
In Zucchini Noodles
- For a low-carb alternative, toss the meatballs with spiralized zucchini noodles. This adds freshness and keeps the dish light.
As Meatball Subs
- Stuff Salisbury Steak Meatballs into a crusty sub roll with extra sauce and melted cheese for a satisfying sandwich option.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Pairing meatballs with grilled seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrients, creating a balanced plate that is both healthy and tasty.
How to Perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Creating the perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.
- Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef helps keep the meatballs moist without excessive fat, ensuring they remain tender.
- Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine ingredients just until blended for a softer texture.
- Check seasoning: Always taste the mixture before baking. Adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference for optimal flavor.
- Bake evenly: Make sure to space the meatballs properly on the baking sheet so they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
- Simmer in sauce: After baking, let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for a few minutes. This allows them to absorb more flavor.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor. Don’t skip this simple step!

Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Pairing side dishes with Salisbury Steak Meatballs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate, adding an extra layer of flavor.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides crunch and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes add a crispy texture that pairs wonderfully with the tender meatballs.
- Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers creaminess without excess carbs.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish while adding freshness.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors of Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach provides iron and vitamins while complementing the overall flavors on your plate.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as a nutritious base that complements both texture and taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salisbury Steak Meatballs can be delightful, but a few errors can detract from your dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect meatballs.
- Using the wrong meat: Selecting high-fat ground beef might result in greasy meatballs. Opt for lean ground beef for a flavorful yet tender texture.
- Not measuring ingredients: Eye-balling ingredients like salt and Worcestershire sauce can lead to an imbalance in flavor. Always measure your ingredients for consistent results.
- Overmixing the meat: Mixing your meat too much can result in tough meatballs. Combine gently until just mixed to keep them tender.
- Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the meatballs to rest before baking can cause them to fall apart. Let them sit for a few minutes after forming them.
- Ignoring the cooking time: Cooking the meatballs for too long can dry them out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F without overcooking.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What are Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are flavorful, tender meatballs made primarily from ground beef and served in a rich mushroom and onion sauce. They have all the classic flavors of traditional Salisbury steak.
Can I make these Salisbury Steak Meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using almond meal instead of breadcrumbs. Ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free.
How do I customize my Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
You can add different spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
What should I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. You can choose based on your dietary needs or personal preferences.
Final Thoughts
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit any dining occasion. Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes or zoodles for a low-carb meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices! Try making these savory meatballs today!

Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Salisbury Steak Meatballs offer a delightful and comforting twist on the classic dish. These tender meatballs are enveloped in a savory mushroom and onion sauce that elevates their flavor profile, making them perfect for both busy weeknight dinners and special occasions. Versatile and easy to prepare, this recipe pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Whether you’re serving family or hosting friends, these meatballs are sure to impress with their rich taste and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/3 cup almond meal (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, almond meal (or breadcrumbs), chopped parsley, onion, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In a skillet over high heat, add olive oil and sauté mushrooms until golden brown; set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and cook onions until softened. Stir in garlic for an additional minute.
- Add beef broth, parsley, Worcestershire sauce (or balsamic vinegar), Italian seasoning, cooked mushrooms, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
- Add baked meatballs to the sauce and cook together for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices. For gluten-free options use almond meal and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.