Introduction
Transform humble ground beef and potatoes into a comforting, delicious meal the whole family will adore! This Easy Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering big flavor without the fuss. Get ready for a taste of home-cooked happiness!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s simple, satisfying, and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. The combination of juicy, flavorful meatballs and creamy, buttery mashed potatoes is a classic for a reason—it’s pure comfort food magic! Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Key Ingredients
- 🥔 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 🥛 1 cup milk
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 🥩 1 lb ground beef
- 🧅 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 🍞 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 🥚 1 egg, beaten
- 🥄 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 🍅 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Potatoes: Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain well.
2️⃣ Make the Mashed Potatoes: Return potatoes to the pot. Mash with a potato masher or electric mixer. Stir in milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
3️⃣ Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and diced tomatoes. Gently mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
4️⃣ Shape the Meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
5️⃣ Cook the Meatballs: Place meatballs in a lightly greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Handy Tips
- For extra creamy mashed potatoes, add a splash of cream or sour cream.
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, or the meatballs will be tough.
- If you want to brown the meatballs before baking, sauté them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before placing them in the baking dish.
Heat Control
Baking the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) ensures they cook evenly and thoroughly without drying out. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overcook.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on creamy and tender textures, you can add a bit of crunch by topping the finished meatballs with some freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For even quicker prep, use instant mashed potatoes.
- Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
Storage Tips
Store leftover meatballs and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This meal makes a thoughtful gift for new parents or anyone who needs a comforting meal. Package the meatballs and mashed potatoes separately in attractive disposable containers, adding a pretty ribbon for a personal touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Salisbury: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture.
🌟 Cheesy Salisbury: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes.
🌟 Herb-infused Salisbury: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary) to the meatball mixture.
🌟 BBQ Salisbury: Brush the cooked meatballs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Troubleshooting
- Dry Meatballs: If your meatballs are dry, add a little more milk or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.
- Lumpy Mashed Potatoes: If your mashed potatoes are lumpy, use an electric mixer for smoother results.
- Overcooked Meatballs: Reduce the baking time if your meatballs are browning too quickly.
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze these meatballs and mashed potatoes? A: Yes! Freeze the cooked meatballs and mashed potatoes separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes? A: Yes, but russet potatoes are best for creamy mashed potatoes. Yukon golds will also work well.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? A: You can cook the meatballs in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours, but the mashed potatoes are best made separately.
Q: What can I serve with this meal? A: This meal is delicious on its own, but you can add a side salad or steamed green beans for a complete and balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Easy Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve up a comforting and delicious meal. Share your creations and rate this recipe on RateMyRecipes.com – we can’t wait to see your photos! Enjoy!
Comfort Food Winner: Salisbury Meatballs & Mash
A hearty dish featuring savory meatballs in a rich gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for cold nights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375u00b0C (190u00b0F).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then transfer to a baking dish.
- In the same skillet, add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Pour over the meatballs in the baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- While the meatballs are baking, boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return to the pot. Add milk and butter, then mash until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir into the gravy in the baking dish and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve meatballs over mashed potatoes, spooning gravy on top.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add herbs like parsley or thyme to the meatball mixture.
- Use a potato ricer for the fluffiest mashed potatoes.