Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With their rich, savory flavor and tender texture, they bring a sense of warmth to your table. This dish is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. The combination of frozen meatballs and a hearty mushroom gravy makes this recipe both easy and satisfying, delivering a homemade touch without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices creates a deep, savory taste.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner or as a hearty appetizer at parties.
• Budget-Friendly: Using frozen meatballs keeps this dish affordable while still being delicious.
• Feed a Crowd: This recipe yields eight servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• 6-quart slow cooker: Perfectly sized to cook large quantities of food evenly without drying out.
• Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Ensures that your gravy mix and liquids are well combined, preventing clumps.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 26 oz frozen meatballs
• 8 oz brown mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 yellow onion (sliced)

For the Gravy

• 2 cups low sodium beef broth
• 1 oz package brown gravy mix
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp garlic (minced)

To Thicken the Gravy

• 2 tbsp corn starch
• ¼ cup water

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Place the sliced mushrooms and onions in the bottom of your 6-quart crock pot. Then pour the frozen meatballs over the top.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients for Gravy

In a medium bowl, add beef broth, brown gravy mix, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and minced garlic. Whisk until well combined. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 2–3 hours or low for 5–6 hours until the meatballs are heated through and tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Gravy

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Mix gently until well combined. Cook for an additional ten minutes or until the gravy thickens.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs over rice or mashed potatoes. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

These slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. They pair well with a variety of sides and can be presented in different ways to suit your taste.

Over Rice

• Serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal that soaks up the rich gravy.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Classic comfort food! Pair the meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty dish that everyone loves.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, drizzle with gravy, and top with cheese for a delightful sandwich.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on toothpicks as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering; they will be a hit!

On Pasta

• Toss cooked pasta with the meatball gravy for a twist on spaghetti that’s sure to impress.

With Vegetables

• Add steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for a balanced meal that includes veggies.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

To make your slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture, ensuring every bite is delicious.

• Use Quality Meatballs: Choose high-quality frozen meatballs for better taste and texture in your final dish.
• Sauté Onions and Mushrooms: For extra depth of flavor, sauté sliced onions and mushrooms before adding them to the crock pot.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary; this ensures it’s just right.
• Thicken Gravy Properly: Make sure to whisk cornstarch thoroughly in water to avoid lumps in your gravy.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving for an added touch of freshness.
• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking; it helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this savory dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while enhancing flavor.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the rich meatballs.
4. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers creaminess without the carbs.
5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with butter or sour cream make a hearty side option.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and a hint of earthiness to your plate.
7. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory flavors, offering a delightful contrast.
8. Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly complements the richness of the main dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Thawing Meatballs: Using frozen meatballs directly can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure they are cooked thoroughly by following the recipe times closely.
• Skipping the Gravy Mix: Omitting the brown gravy mix can result in bland flavors. Make sure to include it for that rich, savory taste.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Packing too many ingredients can prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recommended amount to ensure even heat distribution.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high for too long may dry out the meatballs. Follow the suggested cooking times for the best texture.
• Not Thickening the Gravy: Forgetting to add cornstarch mixture at the end leaves you with runny gravy. This step is crucial for a satisfying sauce.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• These meatballs can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat in a pan with a splash of beef broth until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs:

How long do Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs take to cook?

Cooking time varies between high (2-3 hours) and low (5-6 hours) settings on your slow cooker.

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! You can use homemade meatballs; just ensure they are cooked through.

What sides go well with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

These meatballs pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Certainly! You can add carrots or peas for extra nutrients and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Try this recipe for a comforting meal that your family will love!