Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy is the ideal dish for a busy day. Imagine coming home to a warm, hearty meal that’s both delicious and comforting. Loaded with tender meatballs simmered in creamy gravy, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Using a slow cooker makes the process even easier, giving you more time to relax while the meal cooks itself.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy Recipe
This Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy recipe ticks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner. You love the simplicity of throwing everything in one pot and letting it work its magic. The combination of the cream of mushroom soup and brown gravy mix creates a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the meatballs beautifully. Plus, the meal is incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, it satisfies your hunger every time. It’s comfort food at its best, ensuring cozy family meals without the fuss.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy
To whip up this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 cup water
- 32 ounce package frozen meatballs
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
Gather these items and you are ready to cook.
How to Make Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy Directions
Making Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy is a straightforward process that even beginner cooks can master. Start by taking a medium-sized bowl and whisking together the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, and water until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial because it creates a luscious gravy that will envelop the meatballs during cooking.
Next, take your frozen meatballs and place them in the bowl of a 6-quart slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw the meatballs first; they will cook perfectly in the slow cooker. Once the meatballs are in the slow cooker, top them with your thinly sliced onions. The onions will add flavor and aroma to the dish as they cook down.
Now, pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs, ensuring that every meatball is fully covered. This step is essential, as it allows the meatballs to absorb all the delicious flavors while cooking. After everything is in the slow cooker, place the lid on top.
Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The key to juicy meatballs is allowing them to cook slowly so that they remain tender and flavorful. Once the cooking time is up, check that the meatballs are fully cooked through. The aroma filling your kitchen will be an indication that a delightful meal is about to be served.
Once the meatballs are ready, simply scoop them out, making sure to ladle some of that savory gravy on top. You’re just moments away from enjoying a mouth-watering dish.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy
Serving Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy is an enjoyable part of this recipe. There are several delightful options to consider that allow you to personalize the meal further. One of the most popular ways to serve this dish is over creamy mashed potatoes. The rich gravy will soak into the potatoes, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
Alternatively, you could opt for a fluffy bed of rice. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. If you’re a fan of egg noodles, they also make an excellent base for this dish, providing a simple and comforting vessel for the meatballs and gravy.
Sprinkle a bit of parsley on top for added color and a hint of freshness. No matter how you choose to serve it, this meal is sure to impress your family and leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy
To get the most out of your Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy, keep these expert tips in mind. First, using frozen meatballs not only saves time but also ensures you have a convenient meal option available whenever you need it. If you’d like a bit of a kick, consider adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the gravy mixture for added heat.
Another helpful tip is to add a variety of vegetables. Chopped bell peppers or carrots can be a great addition, providing extra flavor and nutrition. You can toss them in with the meatballs and onions, allowing them to cook down and blend seamlessly with the gravy.
Lastly, if you find that your gravy is too thick for your liking, a splash of additional water or broth can help reach your desired consistency. Always taste and adjust seasonings after cooking to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
How to Store Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy
Leftovers can be a blessing when it comes to Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy. Store any remaining meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to three days. It’s a great way to enjoy a quick meal during a busy week ahead.
If you want to keep your leftovers longer, consider freezing the meatballs and gravy. Transfer the cooled leftovers into freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply defrost them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Variation of Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. One popular variation is to use a different type of soup. Cream of chicken or cream of celery can both be delightful substitutes if you’re looking to change things up.
You can also customize the meatballs themselves. Whether you prefer turkey, beef, or chicken meatballs, each type brings its unique flavor profile to the dish. You could even make your own meatballs from scratch if you’re in the mood for some culinary creativity.
For a unique twist, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the gravy mixture for an elevated flavor experience. You could also swap out the onions for leeks or shallots for a different aromatic base. The possibilities are endless, making this dish one that can continually evolve to suit your tastes.
FAQ
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy?
You can serve Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Each option makes a delicious base for the rich, flavorful gravy.
Can I make Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy earlier in the day, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
How long can I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months.
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh meatballs will likely need less time to cook than frozen ones.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy is excellent for meal prep. You can make a large batch at once and portion it out for quick meals throughout the week.
Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy
Ingredients
For the gravy
- 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 cup water
For the meatballs
- 32 ounce package frozen meatballs No need to thaw before cooking.
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced Adds flavor and aroma.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, and water until smooth.
- Place frozen meatballs in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Top meatballs with thinly sliced onions.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs, ensuring all are covered.
- Place the lid on the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Check that the meatballs are fully cooked through before serving.
Serving
- Scoop meatballs and ladle gravy on top.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Sprinkle with parsley for added color.
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