Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic Salisbury steak, offering the same rich flavors in a more manageable, bite-sized form. Perfect for a family dinner or as a hearty appetizer, these meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Here’s how to prepare them with clear instructions:
Ingredients:
- ½ pound lean ground beef: For a rich and savory flavor.
- ½ pound lean ground turkey: Adds a lighter touch while keeping the meatballs tender.
- ½ cup minced onions: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- ⅓ cup seasoned bread crumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and adds a touch of seasoning.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binding agent to hold the meatballs together.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor and helps with the meatball texture.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper: For a bit of heat and seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavor and adds complexity.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Provides acidity and balances the richness of the meat.
- ¼ teaspoon mustard powder: Adds a subtle tang and enhances the flavor profile.
- 5 ounces sliced mushrooms: Adds earthiness and texture to the dish.
- 1¼ cups beef broth: For simmering and creating a flavorful sauce.
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground turkey. Add the minced onions, seasoned bread crumbs, and beaten egg. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution. Incorporate the tomato paste, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, and mustard powder. Continue mixing until all ingredients are fully combined. The mixture should be moist but not overly sticky.
- Form and Bake Meatballs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should get approximately 16-20 meatballs. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have a nice golden-brown exterior.
- Prepare Mushroom Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil if needed, and sauté the sliced mushrooms until they are golden brown and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them from the baking sheet to the skillet with the mushrooms. Carefully pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken. The meatballs will absorb some of the broth, making them even more flavorful.
- Serve: Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs hot, spooned over a bed of mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. The rich mushroom sauce is perfect for drizzling over your side dishes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Meat Mixture: Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture; this can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
- Size of Meatballs: For even cooking, try to keep the meatballs uniform in size.
- Texture: If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of beef broth or a little more tomato paste. If too wet, add a bit more bread crumbs.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce.
FAQs:
- Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and bake them ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the sauce.
- Can I use all beef or all turkey instead of a mix? Absolutely! You can use either all beef or all turkey if you prefer. Adjust the seasoning as needed based on your choice.
- Can I make these meatballs in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook these meatballs in a slow cooker. Brown them first in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the mushroom sauce and beef broth. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a versatile and comforting dish that brings together the classic flavors of Salisbury steak in a convenient and delicious form. Whether served over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal that’s both hearty and comforting.
