Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Easy & Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, then you’re in for a treat with this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Easy & Delicious Recipe. This dish is one of my all-time favorites because it combines tender meatballs with a rich and savory mushroom gravy that just begs to be soaked up by mashed potatoes or nestled over a bed of noodles. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something comforting, or for family gatherings where everyone will be reaching for seconds.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to enjoy your time with loved ones while the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s truly a delicious way to bring everyone around the dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have a delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves meatballs! This recipe is sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in the morning and come home to a warm and hearty dinner.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of beef, mushrooms, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are not only simple but also wholesome, making this recipe as easy as pie (or should I say, meatballs?). Gather these staples from your pantry and fridge, and let’s get cooking!

For the Meatballs

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Gravy

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add some veggies: Incorporate diced carrots or peas into the gravy for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to give it a little kick.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, chopped onion, beaten egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. It’s important not to overmix—this keeps your meatballs tender!

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1-1.5 inch meatballs—aim for about 20-24 in total. These little bites will soak up all that delicious gravy while cooking.

Step 3: Sear the Meatballs

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear those meatballs on all sides until they’re browned. This step adds great flavor through caramelization; don’t skip it if you can help it!

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms

In the same skillet (or a clean one), heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until softened and lightly browned—about 5-7 minutes. Follow this by adding sliced mushrooms and minced garlic; cook until tender. This mixture will form the base flavor of your gravy.

Step 5: Create the Roux

Sprinkle flour over your sautéed onions and mushrooms; cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. This roux is essential for thickening our gravy later on.

Step 6: Whisk in Broth

Slowly pour in beef broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring this fabulous mixture to a simmer—this is where magic happens!

Step 7: Layer in Slow Cooker

Pour a thin layer of gravy into the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange seared meatballs over it in a single layer before pouring on any remaining gravy. Make sure they’re mostly submerged so they soak up all that flavor.

Step 8: Slow Cook Away!

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is cooked through and tender.

Step 9: Thicken Your Gravy (Optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with cold water until smooth during the last half hour of cooking time if you prefer thicker gravy. Stir this slurry into your slow cooker; cover again until thickened.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve these delicious Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley if you like! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Cooking is all about making the process enjoyable and the results delicious, so here are some tips to ensure your Salisbury steak meatballs turn out perfectly every time!

• Use high-quality ground beef – A good quality 80/20 blend of ground beef not only provides flavor but also helps keep the meatballs juicy and tender as they cook.

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture – Gently combining the ingredients helps maintain a light texture in your meatballs, preventing them from becoming tough or dense during cooking.

• Searing adds flavor – Searing the meatballs before slow cooking creates a beautiful crust and enhances the overall flavor through caramelization. It’s worth the extra step!

• Adjust seasoning to your taste – Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning in both the meatballs and gravy. Personalizing it to your palate makes every bite even more enjoyable.

• Let them rest before serving – Allowing the meatballs to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together, resulting in an even more delicious dish when served.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Presenting your meal can make it even more appetizing! Here are some great ideas for serving your Salisbury steak meatballs that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Sliced green onions – For a bit of crunch and mild onion flavor, sliced green onions can complement your dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The classic pairing! Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for soaking up that rich mushroom gravy.

• Egg Noodles – These tender noodles are perfect for capturing every drop of savory gravy, making each bite delightful.

• Steamed Broccoli – A colorful side that adds nutrition and balances out the richness of the meatballs with its crisp texture.

• Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can add an aromatic touch to your meal while serving as a wonderful carrier for that luscious gravy.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a meal that’s not just delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch in advance, ensuring you have hearty meals ready to go during busy weekdays.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure the mixture cools down before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.
• If using the microwave, place the meatballs in a bowl with a splash of water or extra broth and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• On the stovetop, simmer gently until heated thoroughly, adding a little liquid if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and store it in the fridge overnight before cooking. This will enhance the flavors even more!

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

These savory meatballs are fantastic served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. They soak up that delicious gravy beautifully!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Just be aware that this may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I thicken the gravy further?

If you’d like a thicker gravy, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water and adding it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Are there any alternatives to Worcestershire sauce?

Yes! You can use soy sauce or coconut aminos as an alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile without using traditional Worcestershire sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas! These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are not just easy to make; they embody comfort food at its finest. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for those busy nights ahead, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with your loved ones—happy cooking!

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