Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. This dish beautifully combines tender meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy that can be served over mashed potatoes or noodles. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld together while you focus on other tasks or simply enjoy some downtime. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is both stress-free and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use ground beef in a new and exciting way. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or looking for an easy meal for your family, these meatballs will surely be a hit at the dinner table. So gather your ingredients and let’s dive into making this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for best results; it provides a juicy texture without excessive grease
- Breadcrumbs: Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together while adding flavor
- Onion Soup Mix: This adds depth of flavor; opt for low-sodium if watching salt intake
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness of the sauce
For the Gravy:
- Mushroom Soup: Cream of mushroom soup serves as a base for the gravy; choose a low-fat version if preferred
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion soup mix, and any additional seasonings you desire. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a plate or baking sheet.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs (Optional)
For extra flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and brown each meatball on all sides before transferring them to your slow cooker.
Step 4: Prepare the Gravy
In another bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with beef broth until smooth. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook in Slow Cooker
Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Pair with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance by mixing the ingredients and forming them into balls. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Storing: Leftover Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for about 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Suggestions for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Use the Right Meat Blend
Choosing the right meat blend is crucial for crafting delicious Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. A mixture of ground beef and ground pork typically delivers a rich flavor and tender texture. Avoid using lean meat only; fat content adds juiciness and prevents dryness. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using lean turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that the taste will differ slightly. Experiment with different meat combinations to find your ideal profile. Cooking these meatballs on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing their taste.
Don’t Skip the Browning
Browning your meatballs before placing them in the slow cooker can significantly improve their flavor. This step caramelizes the sugars in the meat and adds depth to your dish. Skipping this step may result in bland meatballs lacking that savory richness. To achieve this, sear each side of the meatballs in a skillet until golden brown before transferring them to the slow cooker. The resulting color and flavor make a noticeable difference in your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs.
Choose Quality Gravy Mix
Using high-quality gravy mix is essential for creating a flavorful sauce for your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. While it might be tempting to opt for cheaper options, they often contain artificial flavors that can detract from your dish’s overall quality. Look for brands that use natural ingredients and have good reviews. You can also make homemade gravy if you want more control over ingredients. Whichever route you choose, ensure it complements your meatballs well to create a satisfying meal.
Don’t Overcook the Meatballs
One common mistake when making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is overcooking them. This can lead to dry and tough meatballs that are far from enjoyable. Always follow recommended cooking times and check for doneness towards the end of the cooking period. Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for ground beef or pork. Once they reach this point, turn off the slow cooker to keep them warm without further cooking.
FAQs
What are Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a comforting dish made with seasoned ground beef and pork, shaped into meatballs, and simmered in rich gravy in a slow cooker. This dish is inspired by traditional Salisbury steak but offers a fun twist with bite-sized meatballs that absorb flavors beautifully during long cooking periods.
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs as a convenient option! However, it’s best to thaw them beforehand for even cooking and flavor absorption. If you’re short on time, simply add frozen meatballs directly into your slow cooker along with other ingredients; just be sure to increase cooking time by about 30 minutes to ensure they’re heated thoroughly.
How do I serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
You can serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a classic pairing. Additionally, consider adding steamed vegetables on the side for a balanced meal. Garnishing with fresh parsley enhances presentation while adding freshness to the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs ahead of time is convenient for busy days. You can assemble everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking it in your slow cooker the next day. This not only saves time but also allows flavors to develop further while marinating overnight.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
In summary, creating delicious Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs involves key steps such as selecting the right meat blend, browning your meatballs, using quality gravy mix, and avoiding overcooking them. By following these suggestions, you ensure flavorful and tender results every time you prepare this dish. Don’t forget that serving options like mashed potatoes or egg noodles enhance your meal experience even more! With simple adjustments and attention to detail, you’ll impress family and friends alike with this hearty comfort food that’s both easy to make and utterly satisfying.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a comforting and delicious meal that brings the classic flavors of Salisbury steak into bite-sized delights. This easy recipe features tender meatballs made from lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, and onion soup mix, simmered in a rich gravy created with cream of mushroom soup and beef broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these savory meatballs can be served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, making them a versatile addition to any dinner table. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal without the hassle. Impress your loved ones with this mouthwatering dish that is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion soup mix, and desired seasonings. Mix until well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a plate.
- Optional: Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until golden on all sides.
- In another bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with beef broth until smooth. Pour over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until cooked through and tender.
- Serve drizzled with gravy over mashed potatoes or noodles.
Notes
– For added flavor, brown the meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker.
– Customize with your favorite herbs or spices to enhance flavor.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
