Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Family-Friendly Comfort is the ultimate dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe brings classic comfort food flavors to your table with minimal effort, making it perfect for any occasion. With tender meatballs simmered in a savory gravy, it’s a hearty meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Simply dump the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do all the work.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, gravy mix, and seasonings creates a deliciously savory sauce.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish, making it great for family dinners.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a complete meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this dish early in the day to enjoy a warm dinner after a long day.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: The star of this recipe, allowing for effortless cooking while you go about your day.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining sauces without mess.
- Whisk: Helps ensure all ingredients blend smoothly for an even flavor throughout.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 bag (26 oz) (about 30–35 meatballs) frozen meatballs
For the 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
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Family-Friendly Comfort
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray the insert of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Add the Meatballs
Dump the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker insert.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Beef broth
2. Brown gravy mix
3. Onion soup mix
4. Ketchup
5. Worcestershire sauce
Ensure everything is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and gently stir to coat them evenly. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, mix:
1. 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
2. 2 tablespoons of cold water
Stir this slurry into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Serve hot over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for an extra touch! Enjoy your comforting meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Family-Friendly Comfort
Serving Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is an opportunity to create a cozy and inviting meal. These hearty meatballs can be paired with various sides and garnishes, making them suitable for any family dinner.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich base that complements the savory gravy of the meatballs.
On Egg Noodles
- Egg noodles soak up the flavorful sauce, creating a satisfying and comforting dish that’s quick to prepare.
With Steamed Vegetables
- A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrition to your plate while balancing the richness of the meatballs.
Topped with Fresh Parsley
- A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds freshness but also enhances the visual appeal of your meal.
On a Bed of Rice
- Serving the meatballs over rice allows you to absorb every bit of the delicious gravy, making for a filling option.
In a Sub Sandwich
- For a fun twist, place meatballs in a sub roll and top with cheese for a hearty sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Family-Friendly Comfort
Perfecting your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and tenderness. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
Use Quality Meatballs: Opt for high-quality frozen meatballs or even homemade ones for better texture and taste.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; feel free to add extra spices or herbs according to your preference.
Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on LOW for 5–6 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender meatballs.
Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer after adding the cornstarch slurry until it reaches your desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Family-Friendly Comfort
Complementing your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs with tasty sides can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that balances well with the rich gravy.
Buttered Corn: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that contrasts with savory flavors.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up excess gravy while adding an aromatic touch to your meal.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide freshness and crunch, cutting through the richness of the meatballs.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These offer a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with beef dishes.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory elements of Salisbury steak.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a refreshing element alongside rich meatballs.
Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds make for an elegant side that adds texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs can be easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the nonstick spray: Not spraying the slow cooker insert can lead to sticking and make cleanup a hassle. Always spray with nonstick cooking spray before adding ingredients.
- Not thawing meatballs: Using frozen meatballs without adjusting cooking time can result in unevenly cooked meals. Ensure they are cooked through by following the recommended time.
- Ignoring the gravy thickness: Adding cornstarch slurry too early can prevent the gravy from thickening properly. Wait until the meatballs are cooked before adding it.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: Trying to fit too many meatballs can cause uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Pre-packaged mixes may vary in saltiness. Taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Family-Friendly Comfort
- Place cooled meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Family-Friendly Comfort
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the meatballs with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place meatballs in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs:
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade meatballs! Just ensure they are cooked first and adjust cooking time accordingly.
How do I enhance the flavor of Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Try adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the sauce mixture for extra depth of flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Cook it in the slow cooker when you’re ready.
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Serve them over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal that your family will love.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs offer a delightful blend of flavors that makes dinner both simple and satisfying. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it with different seasonings or add vegetables for extra nutrition. Try it out, and enjoy a heartwarming meal with your loved ones!
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Family-Friendly Comfort
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This comforting dish features tender meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy that promises to satisfy every palate. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while you go about your day. Serve these hearty meatballs over fluffy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a complete meal that everyone will love. Easy to customize, this recipe is not only delicious but also kid-friendly, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 26 oz frozen 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 (for thickening)
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs and stir gently to coat.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours.
- To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water and add to the slow cooker during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, garnished with parsley if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball with sauce (approx. 145g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
