Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

These Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This dish combines the convenience of frozen meatballs with a savory gravy that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker. Ideal for serving over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or comforting egg noodles, this recipe ensures a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time, you just need to combine ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The rich beef gravy infused with ketchup and Worcestershire sauce creates a deliciously tangy flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these meatballs over various bases like mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to suit everyone’s taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers that taste just as good the next day.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty meal, making it great for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you’re equipped with the right kitchen tools. Having the essential equipment on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, resulting in tender meatballs full of flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Helps ensure that your gravy mix is smooth and free from lumps.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs:

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 the Gravy

• 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, whisk together:
1. 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
2. 1 packet brown gravy mix
3. 1 packet onion soup mix
4. 2 tablespoons ketchup
5. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat all meatballs with gravy.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until 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 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.
2. Add this slurry to the slow cooker and stir well.
3. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes so that gravy thickens nicely.

Step 6: Serve

Once thickened, serve your Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a comforting dish to share with family, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich base for the flavorful meatballs and gravy. The combination is classic and satisfying.

With Egg Noodles

• Serve the meatballs over egg noodles for a delicious twist. The noodles absorb the gravy, making every bite comforting.

On Rice

• White or brown rice makes an excellent choice for soaking up the savory gravy. This option is hearty and filling.

In a Sub Roll

• For a fun twist, place meatballs in a sub roll and top with extra gravy. Enjoy it as a meatball sandwich for lunch or dinner.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing with steamed veggies adds color and nutrition. Broccoli or green beans complement the meatballs nicely.

As Appetizers

• Serve smaller portions of meatballs at parties as appetizers. Skewers make them easy to grab and enjoy while mingling.

How to Perfect Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

To make your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meatballs: Opt for high-quality frozen meatballs for the best flavor. Homemade options can also be used if you prefer.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving and adjust seasoning if needed. Adding salt or pepper can enhance flavors.

• Thickening Tips: For a thicker gravy, allow it to simmer longer after adding the cornstarch slurry until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

• Slow Cook on Low: Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender meatballs that absorb all the goodness of the gravy.

Best Side Dishes for Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy from your plate.

2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the meatballs.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, providing a tasty contrast to savory meatballs.

4. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn complements this dish well and adds a pop of color to your plate.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Baked sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with rich beef flavors.

6. Cauliflower Mash
   For a lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy and delicious.

7. Green Salad
   A light green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and balances out the hearty main dish.

8. Rice Pilaf
   Flavored rice pilaf brings additional texture and taste, making it an excellent companion for your meatball dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using non-frozen meatballs: Fresh meatballs can become overcooked and dry. Stick with frozen meatballs for optimal tenderness.
• Skipping the gravy mix: The gravy mix adds flavor and thickness. Don’t omit it; instead, ensure you whisk it well to avoid lumps.
• Not adjusting cooking time: Every slow cooker is different. Check your meatballs after 4 hours to ensure they don’t overcook.
• Ignoring the cornstarch slurry: This step thickens your gravy beautifully. If you forget it, your sauce may be too thin.
• Serving without sides: These meatballs shine on a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Make sure to serve them with something hearty!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe that might help you out.

Can I use homemade meatballs for this recipe?

Yes! While frozen meatballs are convenient, homemade ones can add a personal touch. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

To make a healthier version of the Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe, consider using lean ground beef or turkey for homemade meatballs and low-sodium broth.

Can I adjust the seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding garlic powder, pepper, or fresh herbs to enhance flavor according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with these meatballs?

These delicious meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also add steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I store leftovers from this recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

The Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or sides—for an even more delightful meal experience!