Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

These Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe are a game-changer for busy weeknights or comforting gatherings. With minimal prep and a rich flavor profile, this dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The combination of frozen meatballs and savory gravy makes it both convenient and delicious, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Frozen Meatballs
• Gravy Base
• Thickening Agent
• How to Make Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
• Step 2: Make the Gravy Sauce
• Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
• Step 4: Cook
• Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
• Over Mashed Potatoes
• With Egg Noodles
• On Rice
• In a Thick Sandwich
• As an Appetizer
• With Steamed Vegetables
• How to Perfect Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
• Reheating Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a Salisbury steak?
• Can I use homemade meatballs?
• How do I make it spicier?
• Is this recipe healthy?
• Can I serve these with something other than potatoes?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: This recipe uses frozen meatballs, cutting down on prep time while still delivering great taste.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of beef broth, gravy mix, and tangy sauces creates a deep, savory flavor that enhances the meatballs.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to suit your preference and elevate any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch in the slow cooker to enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for future meals.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty dish, making it a hit with the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Perfect for slow-cooking meatballs gently, enhancing their flavor and tenderness without constant monitoring.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly before pouring them into the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Helps you achieve a lump-free gravy sauce by mixing all liquid ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

Frozen Meatballs

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)

Gravy Base

• 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Thickening Agent

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

How to Make Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. This allows them to cook evenly as they absorb all the flavors from the gravy.

Step 2: Make the Gravy Sauce

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
2. Ensure there are no lumps in the mixture.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure all the meatballs are well-coated with gravy.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and tender. Enjoy the rich aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

In the last 30 minutes of cooking:
1. Prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Add this slurry to the slow cooker and stir gently.
3. Allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes, letting the gravy thicken nicely.

Step 6: Serve

Once thickened, serve your Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

These Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you want a classic approach or something a bit different, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for the savory meatballs and gravy, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

With Egg Noodles

• Serve the meatballs over egg noodles for a comforting dish that combines tender pasta with flavorful gravy.

On Rice

• A bed of fluffy rice complements the meatballs nicely, making it easy to enjoy every bite with the rich sauce.

In a Thick Sandwich

• For a hearty lunch, pile the meatballs on a toasted bun and drizzle extra gravy. Add cheese for an extra treat!

As an Appetizer

• Serve smaller portions of meatballs as party appetizers. They are perfect for dipping in extra gravy or ketchup.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing the meatballs with steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrition to your plate.

How to Perfect Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

To ensure your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meatballs: Choose high-quality frozen meatballs for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust Gravy Thickness: If you prefer thicker gravy, let it cook longer after adding cornstarch slurry.
• Add Extra Seasoning: Feel free to customize flavors by adding garlic powder or pepper to taste.
• Try Fresh Ingredients: For enhanced taste, consider using fresh onions instead of onion soup mix.
• Keep It Low: Cooking on low heat allows flavors to meld together beautifully without drying out the meatballs.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal flavor and texture, serve right after cooking while everything is hot.

Best Side Dishes for Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy loaf of garlic bread is great for soaking up gravy.
2. Creamed Spinach: This rich side dish pairs well with the hearty meatballs and adds a pop of green.
3. Coleslaw: A cool and tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the main dish.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add texture and complement the gravy nicely.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful touch that contrasts well with savory flavors.
6. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that still delivers creaminess and comfort.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are another hearty option that goes well with beef dishes.
8. Cucumber Salad: This light salad provides freshness and crunch, perfect for balancing heavier flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow cooking can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs turn out perfect.

• Using thawed meatballs: Starting with frozen meatballs ensures they cook evenly. Thawing them can lead to overcooking and uneven texture.
• Skipping the thickening step: Not using cornstarch to thicken the gravy can result in a watery sauce. Always add the slurry towards the end of cooking for a rich gravy.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: If you add too many meatballs, they may not cook properly. Stick to one bag (26 oz) for best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Since this recipe uses pre-packaged mixes, taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Adding salt or pepper can enhance flavor.
• Ignoring cook times: Overcooking or undercooking can affect texture and flavor. Follow the recommended cook time closely for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

• Place cooled meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs and gravy in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir every minute until heated through, usually about 4-6 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot. This method takes about 8-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Salisbury steak?

Salisbury steak is a dish made from ground beef patties seasoned and served with gravy. It’s often associated with comfort food.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes! You can definitely use homemade meatballs in this Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe for added flavor.

How do I make it spicier?

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the gravy mix before pouring it over the meatballs.

Is this recipe healthy?

While this recipe is comforting, it’s important to note that it contains sodium from packaged mixes. You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth and seasoning as needed.

Can I serve these with something other than potatoes?

Absolutely! Try serving your Salisbury steak meatballs over rice or egg noodles for a delicious variation.

Final Thoughts

This Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe offers comfort with ease. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Customizations are endless; feel free to add veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition!