Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe – Delicious!
Have you ever wanted to enjoy the comfort of classic Salisbury steak but without standing over the stove for hours? Many home cooks assume that Salisbury steak requires a bit of culinary finesse and a lot of time—especially when made from scratch. But what if there was an easy slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs recipe that let you savor every bite of tender, flavorful meatballs simmered to perfection, with minimal effort? This easy slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional steak, packing all the comforting flavors into juicy meatballs, slow-cooked until melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness.
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Ingredients List
Creating the perfect batch of Salisbury steak meatballs starts with choosing quality ingredients that come together effortlessly in your slow cooker. Here’s everything you’ll need:
– 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a leaner alternative)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (for that classic savory depth)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds umami richness)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for fresh flavor)
– For the gravy:
– 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
– 1/4 cup ketchup or tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions and dietary alternatives:
– For a lower-carb version, swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
– To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with a plant-based crumble or mashed lentils, and use vegetable broth.
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Timing
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours on low, or 2 to 3 hours on high
– Total Time: Approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours (mostly hands-off!)
Imagine coming home to a house filled with the savory aroma of these succulent meatballs gently cooking away, each flavor melding beautifully in the slow cooker. The perfect slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs recipe requires patience, but it rewards you with tenderness that’s simply unmatched by quick stovetop methods.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your meatballs tender.
Chef’s Tip: Using your hands allows better control but be careful not to compact the mixture too much.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs—about the size of a golf ball works perfectly. This ensures even cooking and the ideal meatball-to-gravy ratio.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended)
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. This step locks in flavor and improves texture, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
Step 4: Prepare the Gravy
In the slow cooker base, whisk together the beef broth, ketchup, Dijon mustard, chopped onion, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 5: Add Meatballs to the Slow Cooker
Gently place your meatballs into the slow cooker, making sure they’re submerged in the gravy mixture.
Step 6: Cook Low and Slow
Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, cook on high for 2 to 3 hours. The meatballs will absorb the savory gravy and become tender.
Step 7: Thicken the Gravy
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Turn the heat to high for this last bit of cooking.
Chef’s Tip: For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine or a touch of soy sauce to the gravy during step 4.
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Nutritional Information
For one serving (assuming 4 servings total):
– Calories: 350 kcal
– Protein: 28 grams
– Fat: 20 grams
– Carbohydrates: 10 grams
– Fiber: 1 gram
– Sugar: 3 grams
– Sodium: 700 mg
This recipe offers a balanced mix of protein and fats, perfect for a hearty dinner. Using leaner ground meat or plant-based alternatives can reduce fat and calories.
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Healthier Alternatives
Looking to make this recipe fit a healthier lifestyle? Here are a few simple swaps:
– Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to cut down saturated fat.
– Swap regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat or oat flour to increase fiber.
– Replace beef broth with a low-sodium or homemade broth to reduce salt content.
– Add finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots into the meatball mixture for extra vitamins and moisture.
– Use Greek yogurt instead of milk for creaminess with added protein.
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Serving Suggestions
The tender Salisbury steak meatballs are versatile and pair beautifully with various sides:
– Creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash: Their smooth texture complements the rich gravy perfectly.
– Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts: For some bright, fresh contrast to the hearty meatballs.
– Buttered egg noodles or rice: These soak up the delicious gravy for maximum flavor impact.
– Pickled vegetables or tangy cranberry sauce: To cut through the richness and add vibrant notes.
For a seasonal twist, try serving with roasted autumn root vegetables or a fresh spring salad.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overmixing the meatballs: This can make them dense and tough. Mix just until combined.
– Skipping the browning step: While optional, browning adds depth of flavor and a better texture.
– Not thickening the gravy: Without thickening, the sauce may be too thin and watery—don’t skip the cornstarch slurry step.
– Overcrowding the slow cooker: Meatballs need space to cook evenly and absorb the flavors, so avoid stacking them too tightly.
– Using too lean meat: Ground beef with at least 15% fat ensures juicy, tender meatballs.
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Storing Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave to prevent drying out.
For longer storage, freeze meatballs with gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly to maintain texture and flavor.
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Conclusion
This comforting and easy slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs recipe brings classic flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss. Perfectly tender meatballs smothered in a rich, savory gravy are just a few hours away when you use your slow cooker. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is bound to be a new favorite.
Ready to slow down and savor? Try this recipe tonight, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or subscribe for more hearty slow cooker recipes!
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FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen meatballs in this recipe?
A: Yes! Just add about 30 minutes to the cooking time and make sure they’re mostly thawed before browning if you choose to brown them.
Q2: How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart in the slow cooker?
A: Use a binder like egg and breadcrumbs, and avoid stirring too much while cooking. Browning the meatballs beforehand also helps them hold together.
Q3: Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the gravy in advance and pour it over the meatballs when you start the slow cooker. This saves time and lets flavors meld beautifully.
Q4: What can I use instead of cornstarch for thickening?
A: Try arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour mixed with water. Stir well before adding to the slow cooker.
Q5: How many meatballs does this recipe yield?
A: Approximately 12 meatballs, depending on size, making it perfect for 4 hearty servings.
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If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff or Classic Meatloaf with a Twist for more comforting family favorites! Also, don’t forget to explore our Ultimate Guide to Slow Cooking Techniques to elevate your slow cooker skills.
Happy cooking!
