Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting, hearty meal with minimal effort. Using frozen meatballs, this dish combines savory beef broth and rich gravy to create a satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to relax while the flavors meld together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth and gravy mix creates a deliciously savory sauce that elevates frozen meatballs.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its comforting taste and texture.
• Time-Saving: Perfect for busy days; prep takes only 5 minutes with cooking done in 6 hours.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This appliance makes hands-free cooking easy while ensuring even heating for flavorful results.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to combine ingredients smoothly without spills or messes.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a lump-free mixture when combining sauces and gravies.

Ingredients

This easy and comforting dish uses frozen meatballs, combined with savory beef broth and a rich gravy mix to create a flavorful Salisbury steak-inspired meal. The slow cooker does all the work, making this a perfect hands-off dinner option.

For the Meatballs

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)

For the Sauce

• 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth (see notes)
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

To Thicken the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons cold water

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker evenly across the bottom.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together:
2. Beef broth
3. Brown gravy mix
4. Onion soup mix
5. Ketchup
6. Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

1. Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
2. Stir gently to ensure all meatballs are coated.

Step 4: Cooking Time

1. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until meatballs are heated through and tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

1. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry.
2. About 30 minutes before serving, stir this slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once thickened, serve your delicious Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for an ultimate comfort food experience.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Serving Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is simple and can be tailored to your taste. These meatballs are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that absorbs the rich gravy. The flavors of the beef meld perfectly with the buttery potatoes.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serving the meatballs over fluffy rice allows you to soak up all the delicious gravy. Jasmine or basmati rice works wonderfully for this dish.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing the meatballs with steamed vegetables adds a nutritious element to your meal. Broccoli, carrots, or green beans make excellent choices.

In a Sub Sandwich

• For a fun twist, serve the meatballs in a sub roll topped with melted cheese. This makes for a hearty sandwich perfect for lunch or dinner.

With Crusty Bread

• Crusty bread is great for sopping up extra gravy. Serve it alongside your meal for an added texture and flavor contrast.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing your meatballs with fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness to every bite, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

To achieve the best results from your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your dish turns out flavorful and satisfying every time.

• Use Quality Broth: A good quality reduced-sodium beef broth enhances flavor without overpowering saltiness.
• Check Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker. Always check that the meatballs are heated through before serving.
• Thicken Gravy: Incorporating cornstarch mixed with cold water helps thicken the gravy towards the end of cooking for a rich consistency.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor if desired.
• Serve Hot: Ensure you serve the dish hot for maximum enjoyment; this enhances both taste and aroma.
• Customize Ingredients: Swap out any ingredients based on preference, such as using turkey meatballs for a lighter option.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Choosing the right side dishes can turn your meal into a feast. Here are some excellent options to complement your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a flavorful base that pairs well with gravy.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor and crisp texture, making them a delightful contrast to soft meatballs.
3. Buttered Corn: Sweet corn brings brightness and sweetness to balance savory flavors in this dish.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, cutting through the richness of the meatballs.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory sauce while providing added nutrients.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh veggies offers a healthy alternative that complements the meal well.
7. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide color and nutrition, making them an elegant side choice.
8. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs flavors beautifully while being light on calories, perfect for those watching their intake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking with a slow cooker can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker can lead to less flavor. For best results, sear them lightly in a pan first.
• Using Regular Beef Broth: Using regular beef broth instead of reduced-sodium can make your dish too salty. Always opt for reduced-sodium varieties for better control over seasoning.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients like gravy mix or soup mixes can throw off the balance of flavors. Use precise measurements for a consistently great taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking the meatballs for too long or too short can affect tenderness and flavor. Stick to the recommended cooking time of 5-6 hours on low.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Make sure to give your meatballs enough space for heat circulation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake meatballs in a dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)?

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) is a comforting dish made with frozen meatballs simmered in a savory sauce, perfect for easy dinners.

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can replace frozen meatballs with homemade ones. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker.

How do I thicken the gravy?

To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and add it to the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Steamed vegetables also make a great side.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Adjust seasonings as desired!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) offer an easy and delicious way to enjoy comfort food without much effort. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Try it today and experience its hearty flavors!