Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a delightful way to combine flavorful meatballs with a rich and savory gravy. This hearty dish is perfect for families and friends and guarantees everyone will love every mouthful. The use of a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop beautifully, ensuring juicy meatballs enveloped in a creamy sauce.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to love Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. You can prepare the ingredients in just a few minutes, toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day. It is also versatile, allowing you to serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Additionally, the comforting flavors remind many of home-cooked meals, making it ideal for family dinners. The convenience of using a slow cooker combined with delicious ingredients results in a meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Creating this delicious dish is straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to put together a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs frozen or homemade beef meatballs
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley
Directions
- Place meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add sliced mushrooms over the meatballs.
- In a bowl, whisk together the gravy mix, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are tender and the sauce is thick.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with parsley if desired.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Pro Tips for Success with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Use High-Quality Meatballs: If making homemade meatballs, ensure they are seasoned well to enhance the flavor. Frozen meatballs can save time without sacrificing taste, as long as they are of good quality.
- Layer Timing: For thicker sauce, add the gravy mixture during the last hour of cooking. This will help the flavors stay vibrant and prevent them from thinning out too much.
- Don’t Skip the Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the rich dish.
- Adjust Flavor Profiles: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning. You might want to add a splash more Worcestershire sauce or a pinch more black pepper to fit your taste.
- Cook on Low for Best Results: If you have the time, opt for the low setting to allow the meatballs to absorb more flavors and become tender.
Flavor Variations for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Mushroom Lovers: Add additional types of mushrooms such as shiitake or cremini for an extra savory punch.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy heat.
- Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce mixture for a fragrant touch.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke for a distinct smoky flavor in the dish.
- Creamy Twist: Substitute half of the beef broth with sour cream for a tangy, creamy sauce that pairs well with the meatballs.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with several different sides, such as:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes are a classic choice and perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
- Egg Noodles: Drizzle the meatball gravy over egg noodles for a hearty pasta option.
- Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce without overwhelming the dish.
- Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal that includes some greens.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Leftovers of Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the meatball dish. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|————-|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
FAQ About Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Can I use chicken or turkey meatballs instead of beef?
Yes, you can definitely substitute chicken or turkey meatballs for the beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times as they may cook faster than beef meatballs. This variation can result in a lighter dish while still delivering a comforting flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you will need to use gluten-free gravy mix and onion soup mix. Additionally, ensure that your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. There are many brands available that cater to gluten-free diets.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or even peas into the slow cooker. Just make sure to account for their cooking times so they reach your desired tenderness.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
The meatballs are done when they are heated through and tender. If they are frozen, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The sauce should also be thickened to your liking.
Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes! While beef broth enhances the richness of the dish, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly depending on the broth used.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together the best elements of home cooking with the convenience of the slow cooker. With its rich gravy, tender meatballs, and ease of preparation, it’s a meal that everyone in your family will look forward to enjoying. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and watch your loved ones rave about this delightful dish!
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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting dish featuring tender meatballs in a rich, savory gravy, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs frozen or homemade beef meatballs
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley
Instructions
- Place meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add sliced mushrooms over the meatballs.
- In a bowl, whisk together the gravy mix, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are tender and the sauce is thick.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with parsley if desired.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Notes
For thicker sauce, add the gravy mixture during the last hour of cooking. Adjust flavors to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
