This Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe combines juicy meatballs with a rich and tasty gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner without much fuss!
Name a dish that cooks itself while you relax! Just throw in the meatballs, cover with sauce, and let the slow cooker do its thing. Easy peasy—my kind of cooking! 😄
I love serving these with mashed potatoes or over rice. It’s a great way to soak up that delicious gravy. You’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The foundation of your meatballs. I recommend using a mixture with some fat for flavor, like 80/20. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works as a substitute.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. I sometimes use Panko for extra texture!
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds a savory punch. If you don’t have any, soy sauce can be a good substitute for a similar flavor.
Onion Soup Mix: It’s a key flavor booster. If you prefer to avoid packaged mixes, you can mix your own spices like onion powder, garlic powder, and beef bouillon.
Cornstarch: This thickens the gravy beautifully. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour instead, just make sure to cook it a bit longer to get rid of the raw flour taste.
How Do You Make Meatballs that Stay Juicy?
Creating juicy meatballs is all about the right mixture and cooking method. Here’s how you can ensure they turn out tender:
- Don’t overmix! Just gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shaping them to about 1 ½ inches helps them cook evenly.
- Using a slow cooker keeps moisture locked in, so your meatballs stay juicy, especially when cooking for several hours!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly juicy meatballs every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep work and then cooks for a total of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day when you want a hearty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
Start by taking a large bowl. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix it all gently until everything is just combined – be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs tough!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, take the mixture and shape it into small meatballs, roughly 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs into the bottom of your slow cooker, making sure they are evenly spaced.
3. Add the Gravy:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth and the onion soup mix until smooth and combined. Pour this savory mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatballs should be cooked through and tender by the end of the cooking time.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to help thicken the delicious gravy.
6. Add Extra Flavor:
If you like, pour in the optional ketchup for a little tang and sweetness. Stir well to combine.
7. Final Cook:
Replace the lid and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes to let the gravy thicken nicely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is ready, serve the meatballs and gravy hot over a bed of mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator beforehand. A quick way to thaw is by placing the sealed beef in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and place them in the slow cooker with the gravy mixture, then refrigerate them overnight. Just allow extra cooking time if starting from the cold refrigerator the next day.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth are great alternatives! They will lend a slightly different flavor but will still make a delicious gravy.
