Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the epitome of family-friendly comfort food, perfectly designed to bring warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This dish combines the hearty flavors of Salisbury steak with the ease of slow cooking, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The tender meatballs soak up a rich and savory gravy, ensuring every bite is a mouthwatering experience. Plus, it’s an effortless one-pot meal that allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a breeze, thanks to the simplicity of the process. Here’s how to create this delightful meal that will surely please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

1 bag (26 oz) (about 30–35 meatballs) frozen 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
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Spray the insert of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Dump the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker insert.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and gently stir to coat. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours.
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

For an inviting meal, serve the Salisbury steak meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside egg noodles. The rich gravy will enhance the flavors of these comforting staples, ensuring a satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner that your family will love.

How to Store

Leftover Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3 to 4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the leftover meatballs in a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make

To enhance the flavors, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or onions to the slow cooker before cooking.
If you prefer a thicker gravy, increase the amount of cornstarch in the slurry or cook the sauce longer after adding it.
For a little extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of black pepper to the gravy mixture.

Variation

Feel free to customize this recipe by using homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of soups and gravies. Replacing the brown gravy mix with mushroom gravy or using a different soup mix can give the dish a unique twist. For a lighter version, replace half of the beef broth with vegetable broth, and include some sautéed vegetables for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as fresh meatballs may require less time to cook through.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free brown gravy mix and onion soup mix to create a gluten-free version of this dish.

How can I make this dish spicy?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce into the sauce mixture before pouring it over the meatballs.