Comforting Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

why make this recipe

This Comforting Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It combines juicy meatballs with a rich gravy made from scratch, all while being cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker. The meal is hearty, filling, and full of flavor, making it a great choice for families or anyone craving comfort food. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and allows for additional time to relax while the slow cooker does all the work!

how to make Comforting Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Ingredients :

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (opt for lean beef for less fat)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for a lighter texture)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 large egg (acts as a binding agent)
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium is a smarter choice)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (or try soy sauce for a different flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt (enhances the meat’s natural flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper (adds warmth and seasoning)
• 1 packet gravy mix (simplifies sauce preparation)

Directions :

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and beaten egg until well-blended.
2. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to infuse the meatballs with rich, tangy flavors.
3. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them gently in your slow cooker.
4. In a separate bowl, combine beef broth and gravy mix until smooth and lump-free.
5. Drizzle the gravy mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours until the meatballs are tender and the gravy is bubbling.
7. Gently ladle the meatballs with gravy over mashed potatoes or egg noodles when serving.

how to serve Comforting Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Serve these delicious meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad also pairs well to balance the meal.

how to store Comforting Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the gravy covers the meatballs to keep them moist. For longer storage, you can freeze leftover meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Comforting Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• For a lighter option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
• Add chopped mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Make sure to sear the meatballs briefly in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker to enhance their flavor.
• Skim off any excess fat from the gravy before serving for a healthier dish.

variation (if any)

You can create a mushroom gravy variation by adding sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the meatballs. This will give the dish extra depth and earthy flavor. Alternatively, you can swap out the beef for ground chicken or turkey for a different twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

A: Yes! You can bake the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, then prepare the gravy on the stove separately.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and check that the gravy mix is also gluten-free.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

A: Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers can be added to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Comforting Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

This recipe features tender, savory meatballs simmered in a rich mushroom and onion gravy in a slow cooker. It's a hearty and comforting meal perfect for a family dinner.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meatballs

• 1.5 lbs Ground beef
• 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
• 1 large Egg
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper

Sauce

• 8 oz Cremini mushrooms sliced
• 1 Yellow onion sliced
• 2 cups Beef broth
• 1 can Cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup Ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp Cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Large skillet
• Slow cooker
• Whisk

Method

 

Meatball Preparation

1. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl, then form into 1.5-inch meatballs.
2. Brown the meatballs in a large skillet over medium-high heat before transferring them to the slow cooker.

Sauce and Cooking

1. In the same skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms and onion until softened, then add them to the slow cooker.
2. Whisk together beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard, then pour this sauce over the meatballs and vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy.

Serving

1. Serve the comforting Salisbury steak meatballs and gravy hot over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using homemade beef broth. A splash of red wine can also be added to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.