These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. The rich and flavorful gravy clings to each tender meatball, making every bite a savory delight. Serve them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice for a meal that will leave your family asking for seconds.
What makes this dish so appealing is its simplicity. With minimal prep time and the convenience of using frozen meatballs, you can have a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, these slow-cooked meatballs are sure to become a household favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Mix well until smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the convenience of frozen meatballs with the rich, savory flavors of a classic Salisbury steak. The slow-cooking process allows the meatballs to soak up the flavors of the creamy, onion-infused gravy, resulting in a dish that feels indulgent yet requires minimal effort. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Salisbury steak or just love a hearty, comforting meal, these meatballs deliver on taste and texture.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Meatballs: While frozen meatballs are perfect for convenience, homemade meatballs can elevate this dish. If you have extra time, try making your own beef or turkey meatballs.
- Gravy: For a deeper flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce mix before slow cooking.
- Add-Ins: Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor. Vegetables like carrots or peas can also be stirred in during the last hour of cooking for a more complete meal.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a side of roasted vegetables. A slice of crusty bread is also great for soaking up the delicious gravy.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: These meatballs freeze well! Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container with some of the gravy. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the meatballs and gravy in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
The Origin of Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak, named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, who advocated for a meat-based diet in the late 1800s, was initially a ground beef patty served with gravy. This dish became a comforting American classic over time, and its versatility inspired creative adaptations, like these Salisbury steak meatballs. Combining tender meatballs with rich gravy delivers the same hearty flavor in a convenient, bite-sized form.
Why Use a Slow Cooker for This Dish?
A slow cooker is perfect for this recipe because it allows the meatballs to slowly absorb all the flavors from the gravy. The extended cooking time on low heat ensures that the meatballs stay moist and tender, while the sauce becomes rich and velvety. Plus, it’s a hands-off method, making it ideal for busy days when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal without constant monitoring.
Perfect Pairings for Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, perfectly soaking up the rich gravy.
- Egg Noodles: Soft, buttery egg noodles make an excellent base for this dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: For a lighter option, serve the meatballs with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is great for scooping up every last drop of the delicious gravy.
- Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice provides a neutral backdrop that lets the meatballs and gravy shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade meatballs, go ahead and use them. Just make sure to brown them slightly before adding them to the slow cooker to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free meatballs, gluten-free condensed soups, and a gluten-free onion soup mix.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Salisbury steak meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are an effortless way to bring a classic comfort food to your dinner table. The combination of tender meatballs and a rich, savory gravy offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty and delicious. Plus, the slow cooker method means you can set it, forget it, and come back to a meal that’s ready to enjoy.
Perfectly versatile and easy to prepare, these meatballs will quickly become a family favorite. The rich flavors, simple ingredients, and hands-off cooking approach make it an ideal dish for home cooks of all levels. Give it a try, and savor the comfort in every bite!