Cheesy Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Cheesy Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic Salisbury steak, turning the dish into juicy meatballs coated in a rich, cheesy gravy. The combination of ground beef, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella makes each meatball tender and flavorful, while the creamy beef broth sauce, thickened with cornstarch, adds a comforting, savory touch. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a hearty meal with the family, these meatballs are sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

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 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 well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, in a skillet, bring the beef broth to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with a little bit of water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering broth until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and continue to cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Place the cooked meatballs in the skillet and coat them with the cheesy sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheesy sauce for a bit of heat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the beef broth is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, stir in some sautéed mushrooms or onions into the broth before adding the cheese.
• Different Cheese: Try using cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover meatballs and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. For the sauce, store it separately in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, you can use ground turkey for a lighter version, though it will change the flavor slightly.
2. How do I know when the meatballs are done baking?
   The meatballs are done when they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (should reach 160°F).
3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake them. They can also be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.
4. What can I serve with these meatballs?
   These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. A side of steamed vegetables or a salad will complete the meal.
5. Can I skip the cheese in the sauce?
   Yes, if you prefer a simpler gravy, you can omit the cheese and just thicken the broth with cornstarch.
6. Can I use a different cheese for the sauce?
   Yes, cheddar, gouda, or even a creamy cream cheese could work for the sauce, though it will change the flavor.
7. What if I don’t have beef broth?
   You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth if needed, though it will alter the taste of the sauce slightly.
8. How thick should the sauce be?
   The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If it gets too thick, you can add more broth to reach the desired consistency.
9. Can I bake the meatballs ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simmer them in the cheesy sauce to warm them up.
10. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
    Yes, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the broth and cheese to cook for a few hours on low. This method will keep the meatballs tender.

Conclusion

Cheesy Salisbury Steak Meatballs offer a delicious and hearty meal that’s full of flavor. With juicy beef meatballs, a creamy mozzarella cheese sauce, and a savory beef broth base, this dish brings together all the best aspects of comfort food in one easy-to-make recipe. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs will definitely be a hit.

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