These Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe are a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you can enjoy a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. Made with frozen meatballs and a rich gravy, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, these meatballs are versatile enough for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and no need for extensive cooking skills, anyone can whip up this dish.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, gravy mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce creates a savory sauce that elevates the meatballs.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve these meatballs over your favorite starch—mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles—for a complete meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch for leftovers throughout the week; they taste even better the next day!
- Family-Friendly: This hearty dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This essential tool allows you to cook the meatballs slowly, enhancing their tenderness and flavor without constant supervision.
- Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your gravy mixture comes out lump-free and well blended.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)
For the Gravy Sauce
- 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Thickening
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
How to Make Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Make the Gravy Sauce
In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs with the gravy.
Step 4: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
In the last 30 minutes of cooking:
1. Prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Add this slurry to the slow cooker and stir well.
3. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to allow the gravy to thicken.
Step 6: Serve
Once thickened, serve these Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for an inviting meal that warms your heart!
How to Serve Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
These Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in many ways that will please everyone at the table. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- The classic choice! The rich gravy pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes, soaking into every bite for added flavor.
On a Bed of Egg Noodles
- Egg noodles provide a comforting base that complements the meatballs and gravy, making each forkful satisfying and hearty.
Accompanied by Rice
- Serve the meatballs over white or brown rice for a filling option that balances the richness of the dish with a neutral flavor.
In a Sub Roll
- For a fun twist, place the meatballs in a sub roll and top with cheese. Toast it until gooey for a delicious sandwich alternative.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Pairing the meatballs with steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrition to your plate, making it more balanced.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Adding fresh parsley or chives as a garnish not only looks appealing but also enhances the dish’s flavors with fresh notes.
How to Perfect Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
To ensure your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips that can make all the difference.
- Use Quality Meatballs: Opt for high-quality frozen meatballs for better flavor and texture in your dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce amounts to suit your taste preferences.
- Cook Low and Slow: For maximum tenderness, always cook on low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Thicken Wisely: Be sure to mix the cornstarch slurry thoroughly before adding it in; this helps avoid lumps in your gravy.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to settle and improve.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or onions for extra depth of flavor if desired.
Best Side Dishes for Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish.
- Garlic Bread: A perfect side that adds crunch and flavor; great for soaking up extra gravy.
- Coleslaw: The crispness and tanginess of coleslaw create a lovely contrast to the rich meatballs.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances out the sweetness of the gravy, adding complexity to your plate.
- Cauliflower Mash: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, offering similar texture without all the carbs.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is an easy-to-make side that provides freshness to complement savory flavors.
- Baked Beans: Their sweet and smoky taste pairs well, creating an enjoyable harmony with your meal.
- Creamed Spinach: Rich and creamy spinach adds nutrition while enhancing the overall comfort food vibe.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: These add crunchiness and are perfect for dipping into any leftover gravy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Gravy Mix: Not using a gravy mix can lead to bland meatballs. Always include it for rich flavor.
- Overcooking the Meatballs: Cooking too long can make meatballs tough. Stick to the recommended cooking time for tenderness.
- Ignoring the Cornstarch Slurry: For a thick gravy, don’t skip the cornstarch slurry. Add it in the last 30 minutes as instructed.
- Using Regular Beef Broth: Opting for regular beef broth can result in a salty dish. Reduced-sodium broth is a better choice.
- Not Stirring Gently: Stirring too vigorously may break apart the meatballs. Mix gently to keep them intact.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
- Allow meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, lasting up to 3 months.
Reheating Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Simmer gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs:
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes! You can use homemade meatballs, but adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The meatballs should be heated through and tender after about 4-6 hours on low heat.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like mushrooms or peas can enhance flavor and nutrition.
What can I serve with Salisbury steak meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that brings joy to any table!
Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish combines frozen meatballs with a rich, savory gravy made from beef broth, onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce. Simply set your slow cooker and let the magic happen! Serve these tender meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 26 oz frozen meatballs (about 30-35)
- 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
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Place frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs and stir gently to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until heated through and tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry; add to the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 meatballs (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
