Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak in a convenient slow cooker meatball recipe. Perfect for a hearty dinner!
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe brings the classic flavors of Salisbury steak to your dinner table in a fun, bite-sized way. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, simmering in a rich gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender meatballs simmered to perfection in a savory gravy
- Convenient slow cooker method for effortless cooking
- A family favorite that's both filling and delicious
A Hearty Comfort Food Classic
Salisbury steak is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Traditionally made with seasoned ground beef, it's often served with a rich gravy and sides like mashed potatoes or green beans. In this slow cooker version, we transform Salisbury steak into meatballs, making it even easier to serve. These meatballs are not only tender and flavorful but are also perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a meal that requires minimal effort.
The beauty of comfort food lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia, and this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe does just that. As they simmer in the slow cooker, the meatballs soak up the savory gravy, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Effortless Cooking with the Slow Cooker
One of the greatest advantages of using a slow cooker is the convenience it offers. You can prepare the meatballs and gravy in just a few minutes, set your slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. This hands-off cooking method allows you to go about your day without worrying about dinner. Come home to the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal waiting for you.
Slow cookers are not only great for saving time but also for enhancing flavors. The low and slow cooking process allows the meatballs to become tender while absorbing the rich gravy, resulting in a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Plus, you can easily double the recipe for leftovers or to feed a crowd, making this meal even more appealing.
Customizing Your Meatballs
While this recipe provides a delicious base for Salisbury steak meatballs, feel free to customize it to suit your family's tastes. You can add herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra layer of flavor, or experiment with different cheeses in the meatball mixture. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy.
Additionally, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you're looking for a lighter option. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; it can easily adapt to various dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Get creative and make it your own!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Combine all ingredients for the meatballs and form into balls. Place in the slow cooker.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Make the Gravy
In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, onion soup mix, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Pour over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes or rice, spooning the gravy over the top.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add mushrooms or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a classic presentation, serve them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the savory gravy to soak into the potatoes. Alternatively, consider serving them in a hoagie roll for a delicious meatball sub, topped with melted cheese and a sprinkle of parsley.
For a lighter option, pair the meatballs with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. This not only balances the meal but also adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meatballs. No matter how you choose to serve them, these meatballs are sure to please.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! These meatballs store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place them in an airtight container with the gravy to keep them moist. When you're ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired. This makes for a convenient meal option that’s ready when you need it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used for a leaner option.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak in a convenient slow cooker meatball recipe. Perfect for a hearty dinner!
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, onion soup mix, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Pour over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add mushrooms or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the meatballs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g