Let me tell you about my absolute favorite cozy meal: slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs! Seriously, there’s something so comforting about tender meatballs simmering away in a rich, savory gravy. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare! Just mix up the ingredients, form those delightful little meatballs, and let your slow cooker work its magic. You’ll be greeted by the most mouthwatering aroma wafting through your home, making it impossible to resist diving right in. Trust me, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back Sunday dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate!

Ingredients List

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get those slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs ready to go! I promise this process is super simple and so satisfying. You’ll love how easy it is to create this comforting dish. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal!

Step-by-Step Preparation

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. I like to use my hands to really mix everything together—you want it to be well combined but don’t overdo it!
Now, it’s time to form those meatballs! Using your hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into balls. They should be about the size of a golf ball, but don’t stress if they’re slightly different sizes; they’ll all be delicious!
Next, place the formed meatballs directly into the slow cooker. This is where the magic happens, so don’t worry about crowding them a bit; they’ll cook down nicely.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and soy sauce until everything is smooth. This gravy is what makes this dish so comforting!
Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they’re all covered as much as possible. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Now, set your slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for about 3 to 4 hours. I usually go with low and let it cook while I tackle my day—simply divine!
When it’s done, serve those glorious meatballs hot over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. You won’t regret it!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of these delicious slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs! Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But here’s a general breakdown to give you an idea:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g

These meatballs pack a hearty punch, making them a satisfying meal option. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a well-rounded dinner that’s both comforting and fulfilling!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super quick preparation time—mix, form, and let the slow cooker do the work!
Easy clean-up since everything cooks in one pot—less fuss, more fun!
Comforting flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals, perfect for any night of the week.
Healthy options available—swap in ground turkey or add extra veggies for a lighter twist.
Versatile serving options, whether over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a fresh salad!
Great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner all week long.

Tips for Success

Let’s talk about how to take your slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs from great to *absolutely fantastic*! I’ve got a few tips and tricks up my sleeve that I think you’ll find super helpful.

Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking to lighten things up, try swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It works beautifully! You can also use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Herbs and Spices: Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors! Adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the dish. A dash of paprika or onion powder can also add a lovely depth to the meatballs.
Cooking Time: If you’re in a hurry, use the high setting on your slow cooker, but I recommend the low setting for the best results. Trust me, letting those meatballs simmer all day makes them incredibly tender and flavorful!
Serving Suggestions: These meatballs are perfect over creamy mashed potatoes, but they’re also fantastic served on a bed of buttery egg noodles or even in a toasty sub roll for a meatball sandwich. Wow, right?
Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers (which might be a stretch, because they’re so good!), try using them in a hearty soup or casserole the next day. Just add some broth and veggies, and you’ve got a whole new meal!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delicious slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs ever. Enjoy the process and the amazing smells filling your kitchen!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up these slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs! I love tweaking the recipe to keep things exciting. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

Different Ground Meats: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile. Each option brings its own unique twist, and you can adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Veggie Boost: Sneak in some finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach into the meatball mixture. Not only does this add flavor, but it also packs in some extra nutrients!
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture. It’ll give your dish a delightful kick!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil can really elevate the flavor of your meatballs. Just chop them up and mix them in for a fresh twist!
Creative Gravy Options: Instead of the cream of mushroom soup, experiment with cream of chicken or even a savory onion soup mix for a different gravy experience. You could also add a splash of red wine for richness—yum!
Serving Styles: While I adore serving these meatballs over mashed potatoes, don’t hesitate to try them over rice, egg noodles, or even as a hearty filling for a sub sandwich. The possibilities are endless!

These variations not only keep your meals interesting but also allow you to tailor this dish to your personal taste. So go ahead, get creative, and discover your favorite version of slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a big batch of those delicious slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs and now you have some leftovers—lucky you! Storing them properly is key to keeping that rich flavor and tender texture intact for your next meal. Here’s how I do it:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the meatballs and gravy to cool down a bit before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your leftovers soggy. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner later in the week!
Freezing: If you want to save them for later, go ahead and freeze those meatballs! Just place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. I like to portion them out so I can grab just what I need for a quick meal.

Now, for reheating, I have a couple of options that work like a charm:

Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, popping these meatballs in the microwave is super easy! Just place them on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel (to keep them moist), and heat in 30-second intervals until they’re warmed through. Be careful not to overdo it, or they might dry out!
Stovetop: For the best flavor and texture, I recommend reheating them on the stovetop. Just add the meatballs and gravy to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until they’re heated through. This way, they soak up all that delicious gravy again and come back to life!

A little tip: when reheating, if the gravy has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. It’ll taste just as good as when you first made it! Enjoy those leftover slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs; they’re just as comforting the second time around!

FAQ Section

Got questions about slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my handy answers:

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using frozen meatballs is a great shortcut. Just add them to the slow cooker with the gravy and adjust the cooking time to about 4-5 hours on low, or 2-3 hours on high. They’ll soak up all that delicious flavor!

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, no worries! You can swap it out for cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just make sure it’s creamy to keep that rich texture we love!

How can I make these gluten-free?

To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your beef broth and soy sauce are also gluten-free. It’s an easy switch that doesn’t compromise on flavor!

What side dishes pair well with these meatballs?

Oh, so many options! You can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up that gravy. Steamed veggies or a simple salad also make great companions if you’re looking for something lighter!

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy the night before and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook—easy peasy! They’ll taste just as delicious!

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: A Cozy Delight

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs are a comforting and easy meal option. They feature tender meatballs simmered in a rich gravy.

Instructions

In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Form the mixture into meatballs.
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and soy sauce.
Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice.

Notes

Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Add mushrooms for extra flavor.
Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: slow cooker, Salisbury steak, meatballs

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