Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, 1 clove of the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined, then form the mixture into approximately 18-20 uniform meatballs.
- Step 2: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs until well-browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes total). Remove the meatballs and set them aside on a plate, reserving the pan drippings in the skillet.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the flour to the skillet, whisking constantly for 1 minute to form a light brown roux. Stir in the remaining minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Step 4: Gradually whisk in the beef broth and the Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is smooth. Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring frequently, and allow it to thicken (about 5 minutes). Season the gravy with additional salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for an herbaceous flavor.
- Step 5: Return the seared meatballs to the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the slow-simmered savory gravy actually improves overnight.
- To reheat, simmer the meatballs gently in the gravy on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of extra beef broth if the gravy has become too thick.
- When forming the meatballs, handle the mixture gently and avoid overmixing, which ensures the Salisbury steak texture remains tender and prevents the final product from becoming tough.
- Elevate your comfort dinner by pairing the rich gravy and meatballs with classic creamy mashed potatoes or wide egg noodles and a bright, crunchy side like steamed green beans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 Meatballs with Gravy
- Calories: 510
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g