Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a quick and comforting meal that combines juicy meatballs and a savory, rich gravy. This hearty dish is perfect for those busy days when you want a homemade meal without the hassle. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity no need to thaw the meatballs, just toss them in the slow cooker with a few pantry staples, and you’re ready to go! With a rich, velvety gravy that’s bursting with flavor, it’s a meal that satisfies every time. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, and watch as your family eagerly digs in for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Unbeatable Convenience: Using frozen meatballs cuts down on prep time, making this recipe ideal for busy days.
- Comfort Food Favorite: The savory brown gravy is the perfect match for the tender meatballs, offering a warm and satisfying meal.
- Versatile Pairings: Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a customizable dinner that suits every taste.
- Family-Friendly: With its easy-to-make nature and rich flavors, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients Overview:
- Frozen Meatballs: Choose from homestyle, Italian, turkey, or plant-based meatballs. Frozen meatballs are convenient, and brands like Costco’s Kirkland offer great flavor and size.
- Beef Broth: Use full-salt broth for a rich, flavorful base.
- Seasoning Packets: Brown gravy mix and onion soup mix bring depth and complexity to the gravy.
- Ketchup & Worcestershire Sauce: These pantry essentials add the perfect balance of tangy and savory notes to the gravy.
- Cornstarch Slurry: This thickens the gravy to a perfect, smooth consistency.
How to Make the Recipe:
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Add Meatballs
Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them!
Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine
Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW heat for 5-6 hours. This slow cooking allows the meatballs to soak up the flavorful gravy.
Thicken the Gravy
After cooking, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the gravy reaches your desired thickness.
Serve
Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. For an added touch of color and flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Tips for the Best Recipe:
- Choose Quality Meatballs: Select meatballs with minimal fillers to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a deeper flavor profile.
- Gravy Consistency: Adjust the cornstarch slurry according to your preference. For thicker gravy, use more cornstarch; for thinner gravy, use less.
- Don’t Skip the Spray: Nonstick cooking spray ensures an easy cleanup and prevents the sauce from sticking to the sides of the cooker.
Variations to Try:
- Turkey Meatballs: Swap in lean turkey meatballs for a lighter alternative.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the gravy a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the gravy.
- Low-Sodium Version: Use reduced-sodium broth and seasoning packets for a lower-sodium version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer homemade, prepare about 30 small meatballs and make sure they’re roughly the same size as the frozen variety for even cooking.
Q: Do I need to thaw the meatballs first?
A: No need to thaw! Simply add the frozen meatballs directly to the slow cooker, and they’ll cook perfectly.
Q: What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken the gravy?
A: You can use all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder as substitutes for cornstarch. Just make sure to mix either with cold water before adding it to the slow cooker.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to Store and Reheat:
- Storage: Store any leftover Salisbury steak meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, offering both ease and deliciousness. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade meal without the effort. Whether served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, it’s a meal that will keep everyone satisfied.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and ease, making it a go-to for busy families. It’s a dish that offers comfort and warmth with every bite, and it’s sure to be a hit in your household for years to come.
So, the next time you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that’s simple to make, this slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs recipe will be your go-to. Enjoy every savory bite and share this delicious meal with your loved ones!
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