Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy meatballs, smothered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy. This isn’t just any meatball recipe; it’s a flavor explosion that’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the magic of your slow cooker! Forget standing over a hot stove – with this recipe, you can enjoy a comforting, classic dish with minimal effort.

Salisbury steak, the inspiration behind these delectable meatballs, has a fascinating history. Named after Dr. James Salisbury, a 19th-century American physician, it was originally conceived as a health food, believed to be a nutritious and easily digestible source of protein. While our understanding of nutrition has evolved since then, the appeal of a hearty, beefy dish remains timeless. These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs take that classic flavor profile and transform it into a fun, family-friendly format.

People adore Salisbury steak for its deeply savory flavor and satisfying texture. The combination of ground beef, onions, and seasonings creates a wonderfully umami-rich experience, while the mushroom gravy adds a layer of earthy complexity. This meatball version offers all of that and more! The slow cooker ensures that the meatballs are incredibly tender and infused with flavor, making them perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, noodles, or even rice. Plus, the convenience of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Get ready to experience a new family favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1/2 lb ground pork (adds moisture and richness)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing, optional)
• For the Salisbury Steak Gravy:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Meatballs:

Alright, let’s get started with the meatballs! This is where the magic begins. We want them to be flavorful and tender, so follow these steps carefully.

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. You want everything to be evenly distributed, but the mixture should still be relatively loose.
3. Now, it’s time to form the meatballs. I like to use a cookie scoop to ensure they are all roughly the same size (about 1.5-2 inches in diameter). This helps them cook evenly in the slow cooker. Roll the mixture between your palms to form smooth, round meatballs.
4. Optional Searing: For an extra layer of flavor and a nice crust, you can sear the meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them on all sides until they are browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is optional, but it really does enhance the flavor and texture of the meatballs. If you skip this step, the meatballs will still cook perfectly well in the slow cooker.

Making the Salisbury Steak Gravy:

Next up, let’s create that rich and savory Salisbury steak gravy that will coat our meatballs. This gravy is the heart and soul of the dish, so pay close attention to the details.

1. In a large skillet (the same one you used for searing the meatballs, if you chose to sear them), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. We want the onions to be nice and sweet, so don’t rush this step.
3. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are softened and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally. The mushrooms will shrink down as they cook, so don’t worry if they seem like a lot at first.
4. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and mushroom mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the gravy. Make sure the flour is fully incorporated and there are no lumps.
5. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will add depth to the gravy.
6. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
7. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened slightly. The gravy should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
8. Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can create a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering gravy. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the gravy has reached your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much cornstarch, as it can make the gravy gummy.

Slow Cooking the Salisbury Steak Meatballs:

Now for the easy part! We’re going to let the slow cooker do all the work. This is where the flavors really meld together and the meatballs become incredibly tender.

1. Pour the Salisbury steak gravy into the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Gently place the meatballs into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible. If you have too many meatballs to fit in a single layer, you can stack them slightly.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatballs are done when they are cooked through and tender. I prefer cooking them on low for a longer period of time, as this allows the flavors to develop more fully.
4. Once the meatballs are cooked, give the gravy a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to suit your taste.

Serving and Enjoying:

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! It’s time to serve up these delicious Salisbury steak meatballs and enjoy the fruits of our labor.

1. Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or cauliflower mash. Each of these options provides a great base for soaking up that flavorful gravy.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
3. Serve hot and enjoy! These Salisbury steak meatballs are perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a potluck gathering.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and variations to help you customize this recipe to your liking:

• Breadcrumbs: You can use plain breadcrumbs, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, or even panko breadcrumbs in this recipe. Panko breadcrumbs will give the meatballs a slightly crispier texture.
• Ground Meat: Feel free to use all ground beef, all ground pork, or a combination of other ground meats, such as ground turkey or ground veal.
• Vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the gravy, such as diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
• Spice: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy.
• Wine: For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of red wine to the gravy while it’s simmering.
• Storage: Leftover Salisbury steak meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a saucepan or in the microwave.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

Here are some delicious side dishes to serve with your Salisbury steak meatballs:

• Mashed potatoes
• Egg noodles
• Rice
• Cauliflower mash
• Green beans
• Roasted vegetables
• Dinner rolls

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a family favorite that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are truly a game-changer for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of savory, melt-in-your-mouth meatballs simmered in that rich, umami-packed gravy is simply irresistible. It’s comfort food elevated, and the best part? The slow cooker does almost all the work!

Why You Absolutely HAVE to Try This Recipe

Honestly, what’s not to love? This recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly easy, uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Forget slaving over a hot stove – just toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while these meatballs are cooking is pure bliss. It’s the kind of smell that makes everyone hungry and eager for dinner.

But beyond the ease and the incredible taste, these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for a cozy family dinner, but they’re also impressive enough to serve at a party or potluck. Imagine bringing a crockpot full of these delicious meatballs to your next gathering – you’ll be the star of the show!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions. My personal favorite is to serve these meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The gravy soaks into the potatoes, creating a truly decadent and satisfying meal. But that’s just the beginning! You can also serve them over egg noodles, rice, or even polenta. For a lighter option, try serving them with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are endless variations you can try. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for an extra layer of flavor. Or, stir in some sliced mushrooms during the last hour of cooking for a heartier dish. You could even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

For a fun twist, consider using different types of ground meat. Ground turkey or chicken would work well, or you could even use a combination of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor. You can also adjust the size of the meatballs to your liking. Smaller meatballs are great for appetizers, while larger meatballs are perfect for a main course.

One of my favorite variations is to add a can of diced tomatoes to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. This adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to the gravy, creating a more complex flavor profile. Another great addition is a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, which adds a subtle tanginess that complements the richness of the meatballs.

Don’t forget the garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. You can also top the meatballs with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy finish.

Ultimately, the possibilities are endless. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so adaptable and forgiving. So, feel free to get creative and customize it to your own taste preferences.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your kitchen.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve them with? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see what you create! Let’s spread the love for these amazing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs and inspire others to try them too!