Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs bring a hearty, nostalgic flavor to your dinner table, making it an ideal dish for busy families or anyone looking to savor a comforting meal. This recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich, savory gravy, served over mashed potatoes or rice for a filling experience. The convenience of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. The meatballs are made from a blend of ground beef and seasonings, ensuring they’re flavorful and moist. The gravy, enriched with onions and mushrooms, enhances the overall dish, making every bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these meatballs are sure to impress and satisfy.
Cooking Time: 6 hours on low
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Effortless cooking: Just mix the ingredients, form the meatballs, and let the slow cooker do the work.
2. Flavorful gravy: The homemade gravy is rich and savory, elevating the dish to comfort food perfection.
3. Family-friendly: This meal is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
4. Make ahead: Perfect for meal prep, you can easily prepare it in advance and reheat for a quick meal.
5. Customizable: Adjust the ingredients or add your favorite seasonings to make it your own.
Ingredients Notes
– Ground beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture.
– Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add extra flavor; you can also use plain breadcrumbs.
– Mushrooms and onions: Fresh mushrooms and onions bring depth to the gravy, but you can substitute with onion powder or dried mushrooms if needed.
How to Make the Recipe
1. Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, ½ cup of breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and form into 1-inch meatballs.
2. Brown the meatballs (optional): For added flavor, you can sear the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until browned on all sides. This step is optional but recommended.
3. Make the gravy: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of beef broth, 1 packet of brown gravy mix, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
4. Slow cook: Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and top with sliced onions and mushrooms. Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
5. Serve: Once cooked, serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as the dish sits. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs and gravy for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
– Meat options: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
– Gravy variations: Substitute beef broth with mushroom broth for a vegetarian option, or add a splash of red wine for added depth.
– Add veggies: Mix in grated carrots or finely chopped celery for added nutrition.
Conclusion
Slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort. The combination of juicy meatballs and rich gravy creates a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this timeless dish!