Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak in a convenient meatball form, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
This dish is a nostalgic favorite that brings back memories of hearty family dinners. Crafted with tender meatballs and a rich gravy, it's the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory flavors that evoke comfort food nostalgia
- Tender meatballs that soak up the delicious gravy
- Easily made in a slow cooker for a hassle-free meal
The Comfort of Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a classic dish that many of us associate with home-cooked meals and family gatherings. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a staple in comfort food cuisine. By transforming this beloved dish into meatballs, you can enjoy the same great taste in a fun and convenient form. It's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something warm and filling without the fuss of elaborate preparation.
These slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs capture the essence of the original dish, offering a delightful blend of seasonings and textures. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan creates a tender meatball that pairs beautifully with a savory gravy, making every bite a true delight. Serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Slow Cooker Magic
One of the greatest advantages of using a slow cooker is the convenience it brings to meal prep. Simply mix the ingredients, form the meatballs, and let the slow cooker do the work. As the meatballs cook, they absorb the flavors of the gravy, resulting in a dish that's bursting with taste and aroma. Plus, the slow cooking process ensures that the meatballs remain juicy and tender, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Not only does using a slow cooker save you time, but it also allows you to enjoy a home-cooked meal with minimal effort. You can set it in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty dinner ready to serve. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Meal Ideas
These Salisbury steak meatballs are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them to fit your family's preferences. Consider adding chopped mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different seasonings or sauces to give the dish your own twist. For instance, a dash of smoked paprika can add a subtle depth to the flavor profile.
Serving suggestions for these meatballs are endless. While they shine on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, you can also serve them over egg noodles, rice, or even in a sub sandwich for a tasty meatball sub. Don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an opportunity to create a variety of delicious dining experiences.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic 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 onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients thoroughly and shape into meatballs.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
Make the Gravy
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, sliced onion, salt, and pepper.
Combine and Cook
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the gravy mixture over them. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until meatballs are cooked through.
Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes or rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the gravy mixture.
Storage Tips
Leftover Salisbury steak meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing them in to maintain their texture and flavor. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep the gravy moist.
For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.
Nutritional Information
These Salisbury steak meatballs are not just delicious but also provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese contributes to the texture while offering a bit of calcium. However, as with any dish, portion control is key to maintaining a balanced diet.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider using lean ground beef or substituting half of the beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also increase the veggie content by serving the meatballs with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, enhancing both the nutritional value and the overall meal experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs or cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I serve with Salisbury steak meatballs?
They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak in a convenient meatball form, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic 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 onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, sliced onion, salt, and pepper.
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the gravy mixture over them. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until meatballs are cooked through.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the gravy mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g