Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Quick & easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are perfect for any weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and a rich, savory flavor, this dish is sure to please your family or guests. The combination of frozen meatballs and a flavorful gravy makes it an effortless meal that you can serve on various occasions, from casual gatherings to cozy family dinners. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones while the meal cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The gravy made from seasoning mixes and beef broth adds a depth of flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a customizable meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or potlucks—nobody can resist those savory meatballs!
• Time-Saving: With only 5 minutes of prep time, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking with a slow cooker even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Nonstick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of your meal, allowing for hands-off cooking that results in tender meatballs and flavorful gravy.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that all your ingredients blend smoothly together, preventing clumps in your gravy.

Ingredients

To prepare the Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)
• 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

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the insert of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Frozen Meatballs

Dump the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker evenly.

Step 3: Mix Your Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Beef broth
2. Brown gravy mix
3. Onion soup mix
4. Ketchup
5. Worcestershire sauce

Pour this mixture over the frozen meatballs and stir gently to combine everything well.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover with the lid and cook on LOW heat for about 5-6 hours until heated through.

Step 5: Thicken Your Gravy

When finished cooking, mix together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl using a fork. Stir this slurry into the crockpot and allow it to cook for an additional 10 minutes or until your gravy has thickened.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Salisbury steak meatballs over egg noodles or mashed potatoes (recommended) and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a perfect base for the rich gravy. The combination is comforting and satisfying.

With Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles are a classic pairing, soaking up the flavorful sauce and adding a delightful texture to your meal.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the meatballs over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the savory gravy beautifully.

In a Sub Sandwich

• For a fun twist, place the meatballs and gravy in a toasted sub roll. Top with cheese for an indulgent sandwich option.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing the meatballs with steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrition to your plate, balancing out the richness of the dish.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top before serving for added flavor and a pop of color that brightens the dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is easy with these simple tips!

• Use Quality Meatballs: Opt for high-quality frozen meatballs for better flavor and texture. Homemade meatballs can also be used if you prefer.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving. You can add more Worcestershire sauce or seasoning as needed to enhance flavor.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to mix cornstarch thoroughly with cold water before adding it to avoid lumps in your gravy.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat allows flavors to meld perfectly. Avoid rushing the cooking time for best results.
• Add Veggies: Consider adding vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Completing your meal with tasty side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider!

1. Garlic Bread
   A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy from the meatballs.
2. Coleslaw
   This crunchy side adds freshness and balances the richness of the meatballs, making it an excellent complement.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts, making them a delicious side dish that pairs well with savory meals.
4. Mashed Sweet Potatoes
   A slightly sweet alternative to regular mashed potatoes, these add a unique twist while still being creamy and comforting.
5. Cauliflower Rice
   For a lighter option, cauliflower rice provides a low-carb base that pairs nicely with meatballs without overshadowing their flavor.
6. Green Salad
   A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty meatballs, providing crunch and acidity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are delicious but can be ruined by common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Nonstick Spray: Failing to spray the slow cooker can lead to meatballs sticking. Always coat the insert with nonstick cooking spray before adding ingredients.
• Not Mixing Ingredients Thoroughly: If you don’t mix the broth and seasoning well, you might get uneven flavor. Take a moment to whisk them together until fully combined.
• Ignoring Cook Times: Cooking on high instead of low could dry out the meatballs. Stick to low heat for 5-6 hours for tender meatballs.
• Forgetting to Thicken the Gravy: Neglecting the cornstarch mixture can result in a watery sauce. Be sure to create a slurry and stir it in at the end for a rich gravy.
• Serving Without Sides: Serving meatballs alone misses out on great flavors. Pair them with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs:

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes! Feel free to use your favorite homemade meatball recipe instead of frozen ones.

How can I make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs healthier?

Use lean ground turkey or chicken for lower fat content and substitute low-sodium options for broth and sauces.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

These meatballs pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles and a side of vegetables.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately until you’re ready to cook.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are heated through.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs offer convenience and comfort in one delicious dish. They are perfect for busy nights and can be customized with different sides or sauces. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs, a hassle-free dish that transforms your weeknight dinners into something special. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can enjoy tender meatballs simmered in a rich and savory gravy. This easy recipe combines the convenience of frozen meatballs with a flavorful broth-based sauce that everyone will love. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy egg noodles, or rice for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please family and friends. Let your slow cooker do the work while you relax and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30–35 meatballs)
• 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

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Instructions

1. Spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place frozen meatballs evenly in the slow cooker.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, and ketchup. Pour over the meatballs and stir gently.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours until heated through.
5. To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl, then stir into the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until thickened.
6. Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 4 meatballs (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg