Cheesy Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

This Cheesy Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe brings together the rich flavors of Salisbury steak with the comfort of meatballs, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfectly baked meatballs are coated in a flavorful mozzarella-infused gravy, making for an irresistible dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish will become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking tray.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are fully cooked and browned.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cheesy gravy. In a skillet, bring the beef broth to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry.
6. Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering beef broth and continue to cook until the mixture thickens.
7. Once thickened, add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the broth and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
8. Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully transfer them into the skillet with the cheesy sauce. Coat the meatballs thoroughly with the gravy.
9. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a variation in flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meat substitutes such as lentils, chickpeas, or a meat-free ground beef option for a vegetarian take on this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño to the meatball mixture or the gravy for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the skillet with the gravy.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until hot.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from frozen when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese in the sauce?
   Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
3. How do I make sure my meatballs don’t fall apart?
   Make sure the meatball mixture is well mixed and not too wet. If the mixture feels too loose, add a little extra breadcrumbs to help bind it together.
4. Can I use beef stock instead of beef broth?
   Yes, you can substitute beef stock for beef broth. Stock may provide a slightly richer flavor, but both will work well.
5. How do I know when the meatballs are done?
   The meatballs should be brown on the outside and fully cooked inside. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
6. What should I serve with this dish?
   These meatballs pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or a green vegetable like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach.
7. Can I make this dish without cornstarch?
   If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour to thicken the gravy, though it may require a bit more cooking time to achieve the same consistency.
8. Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?
   Yes, store-bought breadcrumbs work fine in this recipe. If you want a more homemade touch, you can make your own by toasting slices of bread and then grinding them.
9. Can I use pre-grated mozzarella cheese?
   While pre-grated mozzarella cheese is convenient, freshly shredded mozzarella tends to melt better and create a smoother sauce.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    The recipe is not gluten-free as it contains breadcrumbs. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Cheesy Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With the savory taste of baked meatballs paired with a creamy mozzarella sauce, this dish offers a perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this recipe is both easy and indulgent. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness with your favorite sides for a meal everyone will love.

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