Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Utilizing frozen meatballs and a slow cooker minimizes prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules.
- Rich, Comforting Flavor: The combination of savory gravy, mushrooms, and Worcestershire sauce creates a deep, comforting flavor reminiscent of classic Salisbury steak.
- Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs wonderfully with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, catering to various preferences.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized with additional seasonings or vegetables to suit your family’s tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 packets (0.87 oz each) brown gravy mix
- 1¾ cups water
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the insert of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add Ingredients: Place the frozen meatballs and sliced mushrooms into the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown gravy mix, water, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and mushrooms, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve: Once done, give the mixture a gentle stir and serve over your choice of egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Variations
- Meatball Options: Feel free to use different types of meatballs, such as turkey, chicken, or lean ground beef meatballs, to suit your dietary preferences.
- Mushroom Varieties: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, like portobello or shiitake, to add unique flavors.
- Additional Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like sliced onions, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and texture.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Enhance the flavor by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a splash of red wine for depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
FAQs
What type of meatballs should I use?
You can use your preferred type of frozen meatballs, such as homestyle, Italian, turkey, or chicken. Ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Yes, homemade meatballs can be used. Make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker to ensure food safety.
Do I need to thaw the meatballs before cooking?
No, you can add the meatballs directly from the freezer into the slow cooker. They will cook thoroughly during the slow cooking process.
Can I omit the mushrooms?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can omit them without significantly altering the recipe.
How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
If the gravy is thinner than desired, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like sliced onions, bell peppers, or carrots can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
What can I serve with Salisbury steak meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad would also complement the meal nicely.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs and gravy. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the meatballs, gravy mix, and any other processed ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a comforting and convenient meal option that’s sure to become a family favorite. With minimal preparation and the ease of slow cooking, you can enjoy a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Total Time: 4-5 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delicious and easy twist on the classic Salisbury steak. Made with frozen meatballs, mushrooms, and a savory brown gravy, this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice for a hearty, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 packets (0.87 oz each) brown gravy mix
- 1¾ cups water
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add Ingredients: Place the frozen meatballs and sliced mushrooms into the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown gravy mix, water, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and mushrooms, coating everything evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve: Stir gently and serve over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Notes
- Meatball Options: Use turkey, chicken, or lean beef meatballs for variation.
- Mushroom Substitutions: Try portobello or shiitake mushrooms for different flavors.
- Thicker Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir it in. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
