Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball is a dish that perfectly embodies the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals. Originating in the mid-20th century, this hearty meal combines the nostalgic flavors of classic Salisbury steak with the convenience of modern slow cooking. The beauty of the Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball lies not just in its rich, savory taste but also in its ability to turn simple ingredients into a satisfying and delightful feast. Families adore this recipe for its ease and its ability to transport them back to cherished mealtime moments, where laughter and conversation flow as freely as the delectable gravy that coats each morsel. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good meatball, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
What Is Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball
Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball is a delightful fusion of tender beef meatballs simmered in a luscious, savory mushroom gravy. Unlike traditional meatballs, which may be served with marinara and pasta, this dish boasts a unique sauce that brings a rich and comforting flavor profile. The meatballs themselves are juicy and flavorful, achieving an incredible texture thanks to the slow cooking process, which allows the beef to absorb all the delicious juices from the sauce. This dish is often compared to Salisbury steak, but the addition of meatballs makes it an even heartier option, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or rice.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply mix the ingredients, shape the meatballs, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Deliciously Comforting: The rich gravy paired with tender meatballs creates a warm, comforting experience that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, making it a hit at family dinners.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with mashed potatoes, noodles, or even over a bed of greens for a delightful twist.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball is a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet, thanks to the caramelized onions and rich mushroom gravy. Each bite of the tender meatball is infused with a robust beef flavor, while the sauce adds a velvety texture that envelops the meat. The umami from the mushrooms melds beautifully with the spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and indulgent. With each forkful, you’ll find the comforting notes of garlic and onion, making it a dish that feels both familiar and special.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
One of the key ingredients in Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball is lean beef, which is high in protein and essential nutrients like iron, making it a great choice for muscle health. Additionally, the recipe often includes onions and mushrooms, both of which are rich in antioxidants and offer immune-boosting benefits. Finally, the use of whole-grain breadcrumbs can add a nutritious touch, providing fiber that aids digestion while still delivering that comforting, satisfying bite. Together, these ingredients make this dish not only delicious but also a wholesome option for your family meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef – this is the base of your meatballs, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – these help bind the meatballs together and add a nice texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a savory, cheesy flavor that enhances the meatballs.
- 1 large egg – acts as a binder to keep the meatballs intact during cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for that aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – provides depth and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt – essential for enhancing all the flavors in your meatball mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – adds a gentle kick to balance the dish.
- 2 cups beef broth – the cooking liquid that infuses the meatballs with moisture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – adds a tangy depth and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – used for thickening the sauce towards the end of cooking.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – for combining the ingredients.
- Slow cooker – the main appliance for cooking the meatballs slowly and evenly.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing and shaping the meatballs.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient proportions.
- Whisk – for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Ground turkey or chicken – a leaner alternative to beef if you prefer.
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs – for a gluten-free version of the meatballs.
- Vegetable broth – to replace beef broth for a lighter flavor.
- Additional spices (like paprika or cayenne) – for those who like a bit of heat.
- Sautéed mushrooms – can be added to the sauce for an earthy flavor boost.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can make the meatballs tough. You want a homogenous mixture that still has some texture.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
With clean hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This size will allow them to cook evenly in the slow cooker. Place the meatballs on a plate or tray as you go.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs (Optional)
If you want extra flavor, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds a nice crust and depth of flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch until smooth. This will create a deliciously rich sauce for the meatballs to cook in.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Meatballs
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker, then pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (if needed)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, stir it into the sauce, and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high until thickened.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, carefully remove the meatballs from the slow cooker. Serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, and garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
What to Serve With
Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even rice. For a complete meal, consider serving a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad. A glass of red wine or iced tea complements the dish nicely.
Tips for Success
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but ensure it has enough fat to keep the meatballs moist.
- Don’t skip the browning step unless you’re short on time; it really enhances the flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; feel free to add herbs or spices you love.
- Let the meatballs rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving to absorb more flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meatball mixture, which can lead to a tough texture.
- Not allowing enough time for slow cooking; rushing may result in undercooked meatballs.
- Forgetting to thicken the sauce if you prefer a richer consistency.
- Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, ensure to separate the meatballs from the sauce to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw the meatballs overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Then, you can warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If using the slow cooker, add a splash of broth to keep them moist as you reheat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking, or cook them and then freeze the leftovers.
- What can I use instead of beef broth? Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for a lighter flavor.
- Can I add vegetables to the sauce? Absolutely! Chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Are these meatballs gluten-free? If using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring all sauces are gluten-free, then yes!
Nutritional Info
Each serving of Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs contains approximately 350 calories, with about 22g of protein, 15g of fat, and 30g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these figures may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s not just comforting but also incredibly flavorful, the Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball is a must-try! This recipe brings together tender beef meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The best part? It’s so easy to prepare; simply toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the magic while you go about your day. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, the Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatball is sure to become a family favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the cozy, delicious experience it brings to your table!
Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs
Tender Salisbury meatballs in rich brown gravy, slow cooked for cozy, family-style comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 26 ounces frozen meatballs (approximately 30 to 35 pieces)
- 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
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Step 1
Place frozen meatballs evenly in the slow cooker insert. -
Step 2
In a medium bowl, whisk beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until homogeneous. -
Step 3
Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the meatballs, gently stirring to ensure all meatballs are coated. -
Step 4
Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours until the meatballs are thoroughly heated and fork-tender. -
Step 5
In the final 30 minutes, whisk cornstarch and cold water together to create a smooth slurry. Stir into the cooker to thicken the gravy. -
Step 6
Spoon the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or cooked egg noodles and serve immediately.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.
