Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

This recipe for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, delivering rich flavors with minimal effort. This dish combines frozen meatballs and savory broth to create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, gravy mix, and seasonings creates a mouth-watering sauce that elevates the meatballs.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a filling meal that fits any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools for an easy cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, making it easy to prepare meals without constant monitoring.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture when combining the broth and seasoning.

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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

For Thickening the Gravy

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

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

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them; they will cook perfectly from frozen.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps in your mixture for a silky gravy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

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

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and tender. This slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Thicken Your Gravy

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

Step 6: Serve Up Deliciousness

Once the sauce has thickened up beautifully, serve your Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for an inviting meal! Enjoy!

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

Serving Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is simple and versatile. You can easily pair this hearty dish with various sides, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the savory meatballs and gravy, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

With Rice

• Serve the meatballs over steamed white or brown rice. The rice will absorb the rich gravy, enhancing each bite.

On a Sub Roll

• Transform your meatballs into a sandwich by placing them on a soft sub roll. Top with extra gravy for a tasty meatball sub.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair the dish with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrients and color on your plate.

On Pasta

• For a twist, serve the meatballs over cooked pasta. The sauce adds flavor and moisture to the noodles, making for a filling meal.

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

Getting the most out of your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is easy with these helpful tips.

• Use quality broth: A flavorful beef broth enhances the overall taste of the dish. Consider using homemade or low-sodium options.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving. You may want to add salt or pepper to suit your personal preference.

• Let it rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to deepen and gravy to thicken slightly.

• Experiment with toppings: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate the dish and add freshness when sprinkled on top just before serving.

• Make it ahead: You can prepare this meal in advance. Just store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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

Complementing your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs with delicious sides can enhance the dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread infused with garlic butter pairs well with meatball dishes, perfect for mopping up sauce.

2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs and adds texture to your meal.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer an irresistible crispy texture that complements the soft meatballs nicely.

4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is an easy seasonal side that adds sweetness and color to your plate.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides a nutritious balance while being filling enough to stand up against savory meatballs.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with savory flavors, plus they are rich in nutrients.

7. Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered noodles make for an easy side that kids love, soaking up extra gravy from the meatball dish.

8. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb option, creamy cauliflower mash serves as a delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes while still being comforting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding pitfalls can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some common mistakes with tips to steer clear of them:

• Not using enough broth: Insufficient broth can lead to dry meatballs. Always ensure you have at least 2 cups of beef broth for a moist and flavorful dish.
• Skipping the cornstarch slurry: Neglecting to thicken your gravy will result in a watery sauce. Make sure to mix the cornstarch with cold water before adding it to achieve the perfect consistency.
• Overcooking the meatballs: Cooking too long can make your meatballs tough. Stick to the recommended cooking time of 5-6 hours on low for tender results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste varies. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings like salt or pepper according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.
• Not stirring well enough: Failing to mix the ingredients thoroughly can leave pockets of dry gravy mix. Stir well after combining all components for even flavor distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers 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 freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer meatballs to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs):

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes! You can definitely use homemade meatballs; just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on their size.

How do I serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Serve with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add vegetables while cooking?

Absolutely! Vegetables like peas or carrots can be added during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free gravy mix and check that your broth is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction any night of the week. It’s not only easy but also versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite sides or additional veggies. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!