Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’re in the right place! This Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It’s simple to make and perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family, so it’s great for gatherings too!

Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the comforting aroma of savory meatballs simmering in rich gravy. You can serve them over fluffy mashed potatoes or tender egg noodles, making it a meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details of why this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• So easy to prepare: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you!
• Family-friendly: Kids adore these meatballs, and they are packed with flavor that everyone enjoys.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep it ahead of time and let it cook while you go about your day.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of beef broth and savory sauces creates an irresistible gravy that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients should be fun and stress-free! For this recipe, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a delicious meal.

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to swap out ingredients or add your own twist to make it even more delicious.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper if you enjoy a bit of heat.
• Go vegan: Substitute meatless meatballs and vegetable broth for a plant-based version.

How to Make Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by placing your frozen meatballs right into the slow cooker. This step is super easy! Using frozen meatballs means less prep time for you, plus they’ll thaw beautifully as they cook.

Step 2: Make the Gravy Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the reduced-sodium beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This mixture brings all the flavor! Whisking helps combine everything well so there are no lumps when you pour it over the meatballs.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Pour that lovely gravy mixture over your meatballs. Gently stir to ensure each meatball gets coated with that savory goodness. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Step 4: Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 4-6 hours. The slow cooking allows those flavors to meld together perfectly while keeping the meatballs tender. Trust me; you’ll want those extra hours of cooking!

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

In the last half hour of cooking, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Add this slurry into your slow cooker and stir gently. This step thickens up your gravy nicely—no one likes watery gravy!

Step 6: Serve

Once your gravy has thickened beautifully, it’s time to serve! Ladle those Salisbury steak meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Enjoy every comforting bite!

This Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe will surely become a cherished part of your dinner rotation. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are super simple to make, but with a few pro tips, you can take them to the next level!

• Use Quality Meatballs: Choosing high-quality frozen meatballs will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Look for brands that use simple ingredients without fillers for a more authentic taste.

• Let It Simmer: If time allows, let the meatballs cook on low for the full 6 hours. This extra time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even richer gravy.

• Customize Your Gravy: Feel free to add additional spices like garlic powder or black pepper to the gravy mixture. This personal touch can elevate the dish and cater it to your family’s taste preferences.

• Experiment with Broth: Swap out some of the beef broth for vegetable broth if you want to lighten things up a bit without sacrificing flavor. This subtle change can provide a new twist on a classic dish.

• Make Ahead: Prepare and store the cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months. It’s a great way to have a quick meal ready whenever you need it!

How to Serve Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Serving this dish is all about elevating its comfort food vibes! Here are some suggestions that will make your meal feel special.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the rich flavors of the gravy.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a lovely crunch that complements the softness of the meatballs.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The classic pairing! Silky mashed potatoes soak up the savory gravy, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a crisp contrast and vibrant color, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
• Egg Noodles: Tender egg noodles are another fantastic option; they catch all that delicious gravy, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
• Garlic Bread: For something different, serve with warm garlic bread. It’s perfect for sopping up leftover gravy and adds an extra layer of comfort.

With these serving ideas and tips, you’ll not only enjoy making this tasty dish but also delight in sharing it with family and friends! Enjoy your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty comfort food throughout the week. You can easily make this dish in advance, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the meatballs and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you as you prepare your meal.

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones for the Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs will work beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure they are cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

How do I adjust the flavors in my Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe?

Feel free to customize the gravy by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Garlic powder, onion powder, or even some fresh parsley can enhance the flavor profile!

What can I serve with my Salisbury steak meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You could also serve them with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

How long does it take to cook these meatballs in the slow cooker?

Cooking time is typically around 4-6 hours on low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring your meatballs are tender!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re prepping meals for busy weekdays or enjoying a cozy dinner with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!