Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Okay, picture this: You’re craving that classic Salisbury Steak comfort, that savory, rich gravy slathered all over perfectly browned meat. But you’re also feeling lazy (aren’t we all sometimes?). That’s where these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs swoop in to save the day! Think of it as the best of both worlds – all the flavor of Salisbury steak, but in fun, bite-sized meatball form, simmering away in your slow cooker while you do, well, just about anything else. This is a total weeknight winner, and honestly, it gives traditional Salisbury steak a serious run for its money!

What is slow cooker salisbury steak meatballs?

Alright, let’s break it down. Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are basically deconstructed Salisbury steak, transformed into an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course. Imagine seasoned meatballs, browned to golden perfection (that part’s important!), then nestled in a rich, savory gravy that tastes just like the classic Salisbury steak sauce we all know and love. It’s essentially taking a traditional, pan-fried dish and giving it a slow cooker makeover, which means less work for you and more time to relax while dinner practically cooks itself. It’s comfort food made ridiculously simple.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? First and foremost, the flavor! We’re talking savory, beefy meatballs swimming in a deeply flavorful, umami-rich gravy. The Worcestershire sauce adds a tang, the Dijon mustard brings a little zing, and the beef broth creates that classic, comforting sauce. Seriously, it’s incredible.
Second, this recipe is ridiculously easy. I’m not kidding. Brown the meatballs, toss everything in the Slow Cooker, and walk away. It’s the perfect “set it and forget it” meal for busy weeknights.
Third, it’s budget-friendly. Ground beef is usually pretty affordable, and the other ingredients are pantry staples that most of us already have on hand. You’re getting maximum flavor without breaking the bank. What I love most about this is how versatile it is. Serve them as an appetizer at your next party, or pile them over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a hearty dinner. They’re also fantastic in sliders!
This reminds me of when I first made this. My kids were so skeptical because they are used to the classic pan-fried version but they ate 3 of them each. I knew I had a winner! Plus, I love that I can prep everything in the morning and come home to a fully cooked, delicious meal. Forget takeout – this is way better and way healthier!

How do I make slow cooker Salisbury meatballs?

Quick Overview

What is the secret to Salisbury Steak Meatballs? Don’t skip this step. It gives the meatballs a depth of flavor that you just can’t get otherwise. After that, it’s smooth sailing. What are some of the best recipes to cook in a Slow Cooker? What is the easiest meal you have ever made?

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:
5 lbs ground beef (I usually go for 80/20 for extra flavor), 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) or a few other ingredients. 1 large egg, lightly beaten, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (yellow or white is fine), 2 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of salt, 2 teaspoons pepper. How do I make garlic minced, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 clove of garlic, 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Mix well. 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper.

For the Gravy:
2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large onion, sliced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 3 teaspoons all-purpose. How do I make 3 cups beef broth, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon salt? Is it safe to use dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper?

What are the steps to

Step 1: Combine Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt and pepper. Set aside. Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mixing gently with your hands until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix meatballs, or they will be tough. I always do this by hand because it really helps me feel when everything is perfectly incorporated.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Roll the meat mixture into meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. I find it helpful to use a small cookie scoop to keep them uniform in size. This also helps them cook evenly in the slow cooker. No one wants a dry meatball and a perfectly moist one on the same plate!

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

What is the best olive oil for cooking? Brown meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point, just get a nice sear on them. This step is crucial for building flavor!

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Cook until golden brown. Add sliced onion and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Why does the smell make your mouth water?

Step 5: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic in the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the gravy to a boil, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Transfer browned meatballs and gravy to your slow cooker. Stir gently to combine. How do meatballs get all that flavor?

Step 7: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender. I usually opt for low because it really lets the flavors meld together.

Step 8: Serve

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs hot, over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or both. Even in sliders. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

What should I serve it with?

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are incredibly versatile!Over Mashed Potatoes: How This is my go-to! Creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for the savory meatballs and rich gravy. It’s pure comfort food bliss.
What is the best way to serve eggWhat are some classic pairings? What are some of the best egg noodles to eat?Over Rice:Serve meatballs over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for an extra light option. The rice absorbs the gravy beautifully.In Sliders:What is a good appetizer? What’s your favorite way to serve meatballs on slider buns?As an Appetizer:Serve the meatballs on their own with toothpicks for dipping in the gravy. This is perfect for parties or game day gatherings. My family tradition is to always serve this with green beans on the side and bread to soak up the flavor. What is the best gravy you have ever had?

How do you cook Salisbury Steak Meatballs in a slow cooker?

What are some tips for making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?Don’t skip the browning step! It adds so much flavor to the meatballs and the gravy. I know it’s tempting to just toss them straight into the slow cooker, but trust me, it’s worth the extra effort.
Don’t overmix meatballs.If you overmix meatballs, mix gently until everything is just combined.Adjust seasoning to your liking.Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or thyme to suit your taste. Can you add a little garlic powder to your diet?If the gravy is too thin, how can I make it thinner?How do you thicken cornstarch by whisking it with 2 tablespoons cold water? Is it safe to add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking?For a richer flavor, add ice creamWhy use beef bone broth instead of regular beef broth?How do you cook vegetables in a slow cooker? along with the meatballs. Carrots, celery, and mushrooms would all be delicious additions.
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought meatballs. Just make sure to brown them before adding them to the slow cooker. I won’t judge!

Storing and Reheating Tips

These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are great for meal prepping because they store so well!
Refrigerator Storage: Let the meatballs cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze, let the meatballs cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. You can also freeze them in individual portions for easy lunches or dinners. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight. Then, transfer them to a saucepan and heat over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave. Just be sure to cover them to prevent splattering.
Gravy Timing Advice: If the gravy has thickened too much during storage, add a little beef broth to thin it out before reheating. If it’s too thin, simmer on the stovetop to reduce it to your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free (some brands contain gluten). You may also need to use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would both work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they may be a bit drier than ground beef, so you might want to add a little extra olive oil to the meatball mixture.

Can I add mushrooms to the gravy?

Yes, mushrooms would be a delicious addition to the gravy! Simply sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Brown the meatballs using the sauté function, then add the gravy ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.

How can I make this spicier?

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my foolproof recipe for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs! This dish is a game-changer on busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory meatballs and rich gravy is simply irresistible, and the slow cooker does all the work for you. I truly believe anyone can make this and the best part is that the leftovers taste amazing! If you are looking for some other great dishes maybe checkout my recipe for Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches, it’s just as easy and so good!
If you try this recipe, please let me know what you think in the comments below! I’d love to hear how yours turn out, and I’m always open to suggestions and variations. Happy cooking!

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