Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak with these easy slow cooker meatballs. Perfectly seasoned and simmered in a rich gravy, they are a delightful meal for any night.
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Salisbury steak with the convenience of a slow cooker. It's a family favorite that's both hearty and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender meatballs bursting with flavor
- Rich gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
A Comforting Classic
Salisbury steak has long been a favorite comfort food, known for its hearty flavors and satisfying nature. By transforming this classic dish into slow cooker meatballs, you not only capture the essence of Salisbury steak but also make it more approachable for busy weeknights. The combination of seasoned beef and rich gravy allows for a delightful meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
The tender meatballs simmer in a flavorful gravy, which enhances their taste and ensures they stay juicy throughout the cooking process. Whether served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside steamed vegetables, these meatballs offer a delightful dining experience that is sure to please.
Effortless Cooking Experience
One of the most appealing aspects of this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve with little fuss. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to go about your day while the meatballs simmer away, developing rich flavors.
Additionally, the cleanup is a breeze. With only one mixing bowl and the slow cooker to wash, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy families or anyone looking for an easy weeknight dinner solution.
Customizable and Versatile
This recipe is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your family's taste preferences. For instance, if you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture or gravy. You can also experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter alternative.
Furthermore, the meatballs can be served in various ways. While they're fantastic over mashed potatoes, they can also be enjoyed in a sub sandwich or over pasta. This versatility makes them a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to create several meals from one recipe.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs:
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have these ingredients ready before starting your slow cooker.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your meatballs and gravy:
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into meatballs.
Brown the Meatballs (Optional)
For added flavor, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side before adding them to the slow cooker.
Make the Gravy
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine in Slow Cooker
Add the meatballs to the slow cooker and pour the gravy mixture over them. Stir gently to coat the meatballs.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Serve the meatballs hot over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
To truly elevate your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs, consider pairing them with classic sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a traditional choice, soaking up the rich gravy perfectly. For a healthier option, steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad can provide a nice balance to the meal.
If you're looking for a fun twist, try serving the meatballs in a toasted hoagie roll, topped with a bit of melted cheese for a meatball sub. This is a great way to repurpose leftovers and create a new meal that feels entirely different.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the meatballs even more delicious upon reheating. To reheat, simply place the meatballs and gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as desired.
Nutritional Information
While comfort food is often associated with indulgence, this recipe can be made healthier without sacrificing flavor. Using lean ground beef can significantly reduce the fat content, and swapping out regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat can increase the fiber in the dish.
Additionally, by serving the meatballs with vegetables or a salad, you can create a well-rounded meal that satisfies both your cravings and nutritional needs. Always consider your dietary preferences when preparing meals to ensure you enjoy every bite guilt-free.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken, but the flavor will be different.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy the day before and store them in the fridge.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well. Just make sure to cool them completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak with these easy slow cooker meatballs. Perfectly seasoned and simmered in a rich gravy, they are a delightful meal for any night.
Created by: Imogen Walker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into meatballs.
For added flavor, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side before adding them to the slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add the meatballs to the slow cooker and pour the gravy mixture over them. Stir gently to coat the meatballs.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g