Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak in a convenient meatball form, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is a modern twist on a classic dish. With tender meatballs simmered in a rich gravy, it's perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender meatballs infused with savory flavors
- Rich, creamy mushroom gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes
- Convenient slow cooker preparation for a hassle-free meal
The Comfort of Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a classic American dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. The combination of ground beef, seasonings, and a rich gravy creates a dish that is both satisfying and nostalgic. By transforming this beloved recipe into meatballs, you get all the comforting flavors in a fun, bite-sized form that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. You can easily serve these Salisbury steak meatballs with a variety of sides. While mashed potatoes are a traditional choice, they also pair wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even a fresh salad. The rich, creamy gravy complements the meatballs and enhances any side dish you choose, making it a great option for both casual meals and more formal entertaining.
Slow Cooker Convenience
One of the standout features of this recipe is its slow cooker preparation. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be a challenge. The slow cooker allows you to prepare this delicious meal with minimal effort. Simply mix the ingredients for the meatballs, layer them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. This hands-off approach makes it easy to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Additionally, slow cooking infuses the meatballs with incredible flavor and keeps them tender and juicy. The long cooking time allows the spices and seasonings to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory dish. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is simply irresistible. You can come home to a warm, hearty meal that's ready to eat, making it perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs are also ideal for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and make a larger batch to have on hand for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Once cooked, the meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for several days or frozen for longer storage. This makes it convenient to grab a satisfying meal whenever you need it, reducing the temptation to order takeout or eat unhealthy snacks.
To reheat, simply warm the meatballs in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or gravy to keep them moist. With this easy recipe in your rotation, you can enjoy homemade meals without the stress of daily cooking, ensuring that you and your family get nutritious and delicious food without sacrificing time.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and form into meatballs.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into meatballs.
Layer in Slow Cooker
Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the meatballs on top of the onions.
Make the Gravy
In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Serve
Once cooked, serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes or rice and enjoy!
Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs if desired!
Tips for Success
To ensure your meatballs are perfectly cooked, make sure to shape them evenly. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This uniformity helps them cook at the same rate, ensuring that all meatballs are tender and juicy. Additionally, don’t skip the seasoning; the Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the meat.
For a bit of extra flavor and texture, consider adding finely chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture. This can elevate the taste profile and add a fresh element to the savory meatballs. Also, if you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can make the dish more exciting.
Serving Suggestions
These Salisbury steak meatballs shine when served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the rich gravy beautifully. You can also drizzle the gravy over buttered noodles or serve with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
If you want a lighter option, try serving the meatballs over a bed of steamed vegetables or with a simple side salad. The contrast of flavors and textures will keep your meal interesting while still being hearty and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to separate the meatballs from the gravy if you prefer them to retain their texture. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once frozen. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
When it comes to reheating, thaw the meatballs overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little beef broth or water to keep them moist. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Salisbury steak meatballs anytime you like!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works as a great substitute for a lighter option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze these meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with Salisbury steak meatballs?
They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak in a convenient meatball form, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into meatballs.
Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the meatballs on top of the onions.
In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes or rice and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g