Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Looking for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is the answer! With tender meatballs swimming in a rich, flavorful gravy, this dish is perfect for busy families or anyone craving a cozy meal. The best part? Everything is made in a slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to serve a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and tips to make this meal a hit!

Ingredients for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need:

For the Meatballs and Gravy:

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)
  Frozen meatballs save time and effort, but feel free to use homemade if you have some on hand.
• 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
  Using reduced-sodium broth helps you control the saltiness of the dish.
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
  This adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 1 packet onion soup mix
  For added flavor and a hint of sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
  Ketchup provides a bit of tanginess to balance out the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  A key ingredient that enhances the savory notes of the gravy.

For the Cornstarch Slurry:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  This thickens the gravy to a perfect consistency.
• 2 tablespoons cold water
  Cold water ensures the cornstarch blends smoothly without lumps.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before we get into the steps, gather these tools to make the process even easier:

• Slow cooker (4 to 6-quart capacity)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Small bowl for the cornstarch slurry
• Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Preparation

Now, let’s walk through the preparation of this dish. It’s straightforward, but following these steps will ensure you get the best results.

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the insert of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking. This also makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Add the Meatballs

Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. No need to thaw them – one of the perks of this recipe is how easy it is to assemble.

3. Mix the Gravy Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the reduced-sodium beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Make sure everything is well combined. This is your savory, flavorful gravy base.

4. Pour Over the Meatballs

Pour the gravy mixture over the frozen meatballs, ensuring all the meatballs are coated evenly. Stir gently to combine.

5. Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW heat for 5-6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the meatballs to absorb all the delicious flavors from the gravy, making them tender and juicy.

6. Make the Cornstarch Slurry

When the cooking time is almost done, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and forms a smooth slurry.

7. Thicken the Gravy

Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and stir. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. This step ensures the gravy clings perfectly to the meatballs.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Once the gravy has thickened, your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are ready to serve! Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

How to Make the Perfect Cornstarch Slurry

A smooth gravy depends on a well-made cornstarch slurry. Here are a few tips to ensure your slurry is lump-free:

• Always use cold water to dissolve the cornstarch. Using warm or hot water may cause clumps.
• Stir thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth.
• Add the slurry gradually to the slow cooker while stirring to evenly distribute and avoid clumping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is pretty straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind:

• Overcooking the Meatballs: Be careful not to cook the meatballs for too long. While they’re frozen, they don’t need much more than the 5-6 hour cooking time.
• Not Thinning the Gravy Properly: If you want a thinner gravy, you can add a bit more beef broth or water. Make sure to balance the seasoning if you do this.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For an eye-catching presentation:

• Serve the meatballs on a large platter with a generous helping of mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to brighten up the dish.
• Add a side of steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli to make the meal more wholesome.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Feel free to adjust the recipe based on your preferences:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free meatballs and gluten-free gravy and soup mix packets to adapt the dish for those with dietary restrictions.
• Lower Sodium Version: Opt for low-sodium soup and gravy mixes, and use homemade meatballs without added salt to reduce the sodium content.
• Homemade Meatballs: If you prefer, you can make your own meatballs using ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Just remember to brown them first before adding to the slow cooker for extra flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Place the cooled meatballs and gravy in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Transfer the meatballs and gravy to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm up the meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy is too thick after refrigeration.

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh meatballs work well too. You can either brown them first for extra flavor or cook them directly in the slow cooker with the gravy.

What can I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even rice. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complements the rich gravy.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker the night before, store it in the fridge, and simply set it to cook in the morning.

conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe as much as we do! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, hassle-free meal ideas.

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