Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: A Comfort Food Classic

Salisbury steak is a time-tested comfort food, combining hearty flavors and rich gravy with a versatile appeal. Transforming it into Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs takes this beloved dish to a new level of convenience and flavor. This recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep, offering a rich, savory meal with minimal effort.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to create the most delicious Salisbury steak meatballs using a slow cooker. Let’s dive into the recipe, tips, and everything else you need to know to make this dish perfect!

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1. What Are Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Salisbury steak meatballs are a twist on the classic Salisbury steak, traditionally made from seasoned ground beef shaped into patties. By turning them into bite-sized meatballs, they become even more versatile and easier to serve. The slow cooker ensures that every meatball is coated in a luscious, thick gravy that bursts with flavor.

The combination of beef broth, onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce creates a savory, umami-packed sauce that makes this dish irresistible.

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2. Why Use a Slow Cooker for This Recipe?

Using a slow cooker for Salisbury steak meatballs has several advantages:

• Convenience: Simply dump the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
• Flavor Infusion: Slow cooking enhances the flavors, allowing the meatballs to absorb the savory gravy.
• Hands-Off Cooking: It frees you up to focus on other tasks while dinner prepares itself.

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3. Ingredients Needed for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dish:

Meatballs:

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (approximately 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

Cornstarch Slurry (for thickening the gravy):

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.

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4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs in just a few simple steps:

Preparation

1. Spray the insert of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Dump the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. No need to thaw them!

Mixing the Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
2. Pour the sauce over the frozen meatballs and stir gently to coat all the meatballs evenly.

Cooking

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW heat for 5-6 hours.
2. During this time, the meatballs will soak up the delicious sauce, becoming tender and flavorful.

Thickening the Gravy

1. When the cooking time is complete, prepare the cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
2. Add the slurry to the slow cooker and stir it in.
3. Allow the gravy to cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Serving

Serve the meatballs over a bed of:

• Mashed potatoes
• Egg noodles
• Rice Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

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5. Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs

To make this dish truly shine, follow these tips:

1. Choose High-Quality Meatballs: While frozen meatballs save time, using high-quality or homemade meatballs can elevate the flavor.
2. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving and add salt or pepper as needed. Keep in mind that onion soup mix and gravy mix can be quite salty.
3. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Slurry: This step is essential for achieving the perfect gravy consistency.

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6. Variations to Try

If you want to switch things up, consider these variations:

• Turkey Meatballs: Substitute beef meatballs with turkey meatballs for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth to create a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Mushroom Addition: Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for an earthy flavor boost.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes into the gravy for some heat.

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7. Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Families

This recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. It’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults will enjoy. Plus, the slow cooker method allows you to prepare a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

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8. Pairing Suggestions

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic choice.
• Steamed Vegetables: Balance the rich flavors with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
• Garlic Bread: Sop up the extra gravy with warm, crusty garlic bread.

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9. Storage and Reheating

This dish stores and reheats wonderfully, making it great for meal prep.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth to loosen the gravy if needed.

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10. Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown for a serving of Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sodium: 950mg (adjust based on ingredient choices)

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Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. With their rich, savory gravy and tender meatballs, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Whether served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite.

So why wait? Grab your slow cooker and start preparing this delicious, hassle-free meal today. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe

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