Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself, then this Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is just what you need! This dish has been a family favorite of mine for years. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together after a busy day, filling the house with a mouthwatering aroma that makes your heart feel warm. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just trying to feed the kids on a hectic weeknight, these meatballs are sure to please.

The best part? You can whip this up with minimal effort and enjoy tender, flavorful meatballs in rich gravy. Just set it in the slow cooker and let it do its magic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, and you’re good to go! No fussing over pots and pans.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves meatballs! The savory gravy pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep this dish in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat dinner. It’s perfect for busy days!
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in the slow cooker. Let’s gather what we need:

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative based on your taste or dietary needs!

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Throw in some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add some garlic powder or pepper flakes for an extra kick if your family enjoys bold flavors.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free gravy mix and check that your broth is also gluten-free to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

How to Make Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into your slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them first; they’ll cook beautifully from frozen.

Step 2: Make the Gravy Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This mixture is key because it not only flavors the meatballs but also creates a deliciously rich gravy that will soak into every bite.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Carefully pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs in your slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir to ensure each meatball is coated with that luscious sauce. This step helps infuse all those wonderful flavors into the meat as they cook.

Step 4: Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 4-6 hours. During this time, the meatballs will heat through and soak up all those savory flavors. Trust me; patience is key here!

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

In the last half hour of cooking, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir well; this will thicken your gravy beautifully as it finishes cooking.

Step 6: Serve

Once thickened, it’s time to serve! Ladle those savory Salisbury steak meatballs over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a truly comforting meal that everyone will love.

Enjoy your warm bowl of goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Cooking can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Quality Frozen Meatballs: Selecting high-quality frozen meatballs can greatly enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Look for brands that offer all-beef or turkey meatballs without fillers for the best results.

• Adjust the Gravy Consistency: If you prefer a thicker gravy, feel free to add more cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. This will give you that luscious, rich sauce that clings beautifully to your meatballs.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to personalize the gravy by adding herbs like thyme or parsley. These additions will deepen the flavor profile and make the dish uniquely yours!

• Cook on Low for Tender Meatballs: Cooking on low temperature allows the flavors to meld together and keeps the meatballs tender. It’s worth taking the time for that perfect texture!

• Add Veggies for More Nutrition: Consider tossing in some chopped mushrooms or bell peppers at the beginning of cooking. These veggies not only add nutrition but also enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

How to Serve Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Serving your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is just as important as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled over the top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sliced green onions give a zesty crunch, balancing the richness of the gravy beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The classic pairing! Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a perfect base to soak up all that delicious gravy.

• Fluffy Rice: A simple side of fluffy rice complements the meatballs nicely, allowing you to enjoy every bit of that savory sauce.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch and a splash of color, creating a well-rounded meal.

• Egg Noodles: Tender egg noodles are another fantastic option, providing a satisfying chewiness that works wonderfully with the rich gravy.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create not just a meal, but a delightful dining experience everyone will love! Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week, saving you time and hassle during busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the meatballs and gravy to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the meatballs and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through, or on the stove over low heat until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use homemade meatballs in this Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite homemade meatballs for frozen ones. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

What can I serve with Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

These flavorful meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve them alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How long do Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free beef broth and check your gravy mix and onion soup mix for gluten-free options.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs as much as I do! They are not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for any day of the week, they’ll surely become a family favorite. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share how it turned out!