The Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is an ideal comfort food that combines flavor, convenience, and a homemade feel. If you’re someone who loves a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for you. Utilizing frozen meatballs, it takes little to no preparation time while the slow cooker does all the work. Not only can you enjoy delicious meatballs in a savory gravy, but you can also serve it over your favorite side dishes for a well-rounded meal.
Why We Love This Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
This recipe is beloved for several reasons. First and foremost, it offers an incredible taste that rivals traditional Salisbury steak. The combination of beef broth, brown gravy, and onion soup mix creates a rich canvas of flavors that envelops each meatball perfectly. What’s more, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in tender and juicy meatballs.
Secondly, this dish is incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep work, you can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying home-cooked meal without all the fuss. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything is contained in one pot!
Lastly, this recipe is highly versatile. You can serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. The options are endless! You can also customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to create an even more unique meal.
Ingredients about Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
To make this tasty dish, you’ll need 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
These ingredients are readily available in most grocery stores and don’t require any fancy preparation.
How to Make Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe Directions
Preparing your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Start by organizing your ingredients; this makes the cooking process quicker and more efficient.
First, grab your slow cooker. Place the frozen meatballs directly into the pot. You don’t have to thaw them beforehand; their frozen state will keep them juicy as they cook. The magic of the slow cooker is that it lets everything come together over time.
Next, it’s time to create the flavorful gravy sauce. In a separate bowl, combine the reduced-sodium beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a whisk to mix everything together until you achieve a smooth consistency. This step is crucial because it ensures that the gravy will be well integrated and flavorful.
Once your gravy mixture is ready, pour it over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Make sure to stir gently to ensure that each meatball gets coated with that delicious gravy. The combination of the meatballs and the gravy will create a memorable flavor profile.
Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 4-6 hours. During this time, your meatballs will heat through and become tender. The low, slow cooking ensures that the meatballs soak up the gravy while maintaining their moisture.
As you approach the last 30 minutes of cooking, it’s time to thicken the gravy. Begin by making a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth. Add this mixture to your slow cooker and stir it in. This will thicken the gravy, giving it that perfect consistency.
Once the gravy has thickened, your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are ready to serve. You’ll be amazed at how the flavors come together in a hearty, satisfying meal!
How to Serve Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Serving your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is one of the best parts of the cooking experience. Once the dish is complete, you’ll want to think about what will complement these delicious meatballs perfectly.
One classic option is to serve the meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The fluffy potatoes soak up the rich gravy beautifully, giving every bite a comforting taste.
If you’re in the mood for something different, consider serving the meatballs with steamed rice. The rice can absorb the flavors of the dish, making it a satisfying base that’s a bit lighter than mashed potatoes.
Egg noodles are another excellent choice. They provide a nice texture and make for an easy way to enjoy the gravy-laden meatballs. You can even toss the noodles with a bit of olive oil or butter before adding the meatballs on top.
For a fresh touch, feel free to add a sprinkle of parsley or green onions as a garnish. This adds some color to your plate and a hint of freshness to balance the richness of the meatballs.
Don’t forget about vegetables! You might want to serve a side of green beans or a crisp salad for a complete meal that feels balanced.
Expert Tips: Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
To ensure that your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs turn out perfect every time, a few expert tips can enhance your cooking experience.
First, while using frozen meatballs is super convenient, consider opting for high-quality meatballs when possible. Some store brands offer premium frozen meatballs made from higher-quality beef, which can elevate the dish’s overall flavor and texture.
Secondly, if you’re looking for additional flavor, consider sautéing some onions or mushrooms before adding the gravy mixture. This step can add more depth and richness to your dish.
Another useful tip is to taste the gravy before serving. If it needs seasoning, add a bit of salt and pepper according to your preference. Depending on your taste, a pinch of garlic powder can also bring in a lovely aroma.
Make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time. Depending on the slow cooker and the type of meatballs, the cooking duration might vary. It’s always a good practice to check around the 4-hour mark to ensure everything is just right.
Lastly, if you’re planning meals for the week, consider doubling the recipe. These meatballs freeze well, so you can enjoy them later for another effortless meal.
How to Store Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
After enjoying your delicious Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs, you might want to store any leftovers. Proper storage ensures that your tasty meal stays fresh for future enjoyment.
First, allow the meatballs and gravy to cool to room temperature. After cooling, transfer them to an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air from getting in, as this will keep the meatballs moist.
In the refrigerator, your leftovers can last for about 3-4 days. If you want to store them for longer, consider freezing them. This is a great option if you want to save them for a day when you don’t feel like cooking.
When freezing, place the meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. When stored correctly, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before warming them up on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a little extra broth or water to keep the gravy from getting too thick during reheating.
Variation of Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
One of the great aspects of the Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is its versatility. You can make various adjustments to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider substituting the frozen meatballs with turkey or chicken meatballs. These alternatives will give you a lighter meal while still providing that comforting, satisfying experience.
You can also add vegetables directly into the slow cooker for more nutrition. Sliced bell peppers, carrots, or green beans can bring a vibrant touch and added vitamins to your meal. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you use raw vegetables, as they may take longer to cook through.
For those who love bold flavors, consider adding a teaspoon of minced garlic or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the gravy mixture. These simple additions can make a significant difference and elevate your dish to new heights.
You can also experiment with different gravy types. While traditional brown gravy works beautifully, there are alternatives like mushroom gravy that can add a unique twist to the flavor.
Lastly, consider serving your meatballs in various styles. Wrap them in a hoagie roll for a Salisbury steak meatball sandwich or serve them over a bed of lettuce to create a salad. The possibilities are limitless when you get creative!
FAQ
What is the best way to cook Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
The best way to prepare this recipe is in your slow cooker, where the meatballs cook evenly and absorb all the delicious gravy flavors. Following the provided directions will yield tender and flavorful meatballs.
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade meatballs, you can use them in this recipe. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.
What should I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
You can serve Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Pairing them with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad can make a complete meal.
How can I ensure the gravy is thick enough?
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, whisk together cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Adding this to the slow cooker will help thicken the gravy to your desired consistency.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for later enjoyment. Store them in an airtight container, and they will last in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen meatballs (26 oz, about 30-35 meatballs)
- 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth This helps keep the dish flavorful without too much sodium.
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch For thickening the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons cold water For making a slurry with cornstarch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all the ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
- Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, combine beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker and stir gently to coat the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on low for about 4-6 hours.
Thickening the Gravy
- 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the slow cooker and stir to combine, allowing the gravy to thicken.
Serving
- Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
- Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
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