Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food dish. This easy recipe combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a rich gravy that simmers to perfection while you go about your day. The slow cooker does all the work, providing you with a warm, inviting meal the whole family will enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish offers satisfaction and simplicity in every bite.
Why Make This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
This recipe is a fantastic way to bring hearty flavors to your table with minimal effort. Using frozen meatballs means there’s no need for thawing, shaping, or slaving over the stove. The combination of the beef broth, gravy mix, and savory seasonings creates a luscious sauce that envelops the meatballs. You’ll find that the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it cooks is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles, making it suitable for various tastes and preferences.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs involves just a few simple steps. First, you place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand, which simplifies prep. Next, whisk together the savory sauce ingredients until smooth and pour it over the meatballs. After letting it cook for several hours, thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry for a rich finish. Finally, serve it up with your favorite side and enjoy a delightful meal with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
- 26 oz frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs, Italian-style recommended)
- 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for slurry)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry)
Directions:
- Place frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. No need to thaw them first. Arrange them in a single layer when possible for even coating.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until completely smooth with no lumps. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to fully dissolve the gravy mix.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs and give everything a gentle stir to coat. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, checking at the 4-hour mark. The meatballs should be heated through and tender but not falling apart.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until silky smooth. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker and continue cooking uncovered for the final 30 minutes. The gravy will thicken and coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Spoon plenty of the rich gravy over the top.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 14g
How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Serve your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort, or over rice for a satisfying dinner dish. Egg noodles are another tasty option that soak up the savory gravy well. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners.
How to Store Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the meatballs with gravy in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Choose Your Meatballs Wisely: While Italian-style meatballs add a nice flavor, you can use regular beef meatballs to suit your preference.
- Adjust Gravy: If you prefer a more intense gravy flavor, consider adding extra Worcestershire sauce or using low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
- Avoid Overcooking: Check your meatballs at the 4-hour mark; the slower you cook them, the more tender they become, but don’t let them get mushy.
Delicious Variations
- Mushroom Lovers: Add sliced mushrooms along with the meatballs for a hearty, earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the gravy for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out meatballs for plant-based alternatives to create a vegetarian-friendly recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as fresh meatballs will typically cook faster.
What can I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. It also goes great with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just pop it in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready when you get home.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs provides a warm hug in a bowl, making it an ideal recipe when you seek comfort with minimal effort. The rich gravy and tender meatballs make this dish a family favorite that will surely impress. So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, set that slow cooker, and enjoy a delightful feast with loved ones. Feel free to share your thoughts or any variations you try in the comments below!
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Place frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. No need to thaw them first. Arrange them in a single layer when possible.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until completely smooth.
- Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to fully dissolve the gravy mix.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs and give everything a gentle stir to coat. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, checking at the 4-hour mark.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and cold water until silky smooth. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker and continue cooking uncovered for the final 30 minutes.
- Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Spoon plenty of the rich gravy over the top.