Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

This recipe for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) is perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion when you need a comforting meal with minimal effort. Using frozen meatballs and a simple combination of savory ingredients, this dish creates a rich and hearty meal that everyone will love. Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making it easy to serve up a delicious dinner with little prep time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just combine everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of beef broth, gravy mix, and seasonings creates a savory sauce that elevates frozen meatballs.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to kids and adults alike, making it great for family dinners.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat for an easy lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe smoothly, having the right tools is essential. These items will help you create a delicious slow cooker meal without any hassles.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This appliance allows you to cook meals slowly, enhancing flavors while freeing up your time.
• Mixing Bowl: A good mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients smoothly before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that all dry ingredients are well incorporated into the liquid for a lump-free sauce.

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.

Frozen Meatballs

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

Broth and Sauces

• 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Seasoning Mixes

• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 packet onion soup mix

Thickening Agents

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

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

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. Ensure they are evenly spread out for even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This step is crucial for flavor consistency.

Step 3: Combine Sauce with Meatballs

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

Step 4: Cook on Low Heat

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

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

In a small bowl:
1. Mix cornstarch with 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 Your Dish

Once thickened, serve your Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or your choice of side dish. Enjoy this comforting meal!

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

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be served in many delicious ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the flavorful gravy, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

With Rice

• Serve the meatballs over steamed rice to soak up the rich gravy, creating a comforting and filling dish.

On a Sub Roll

• For a twist, place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll and top with cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich.

With Mixed Vegetables

• Pair the meatballs with steamed or roasted mixed vegetables for a balanced plate that adds freshness and crunch.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve the meatballs on egg noodles or pasta for an Italian-inspired take on this classic comfort food.

In a Casserole

• Mix the cooked meatballs with your favorite casserole ingredients for an easy oven-baked dish that’s perfect for leftovers.

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

To ensure your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality broth: A good quality beef broth enhances the overall flavor of the dish, making it richer and more satisfying.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving; you may want to add salt, pepper, or additional spices to suit your preference.
• Thicken at the right time: Add the cornstarch slurry about 30 minutes before serving to achieve that perfect gravy consistency.
• Don’t overcook: While slow cooking is forgiving, check that meatballs are heated through; overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy reheating.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives as garnish for added flavor and color.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up delicious gravy while adding a crispy texture.

2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the meatballs and gravy.

3. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a delightful contrast to the soft texture of meatballs.

4. Steamed Green Beans
   Lightly steamed green beans add color and nutrition, making your plate visually appealing and wholesome.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob offers a fun and sweet contrast that pairs well with savory dishes like this one.

6. Cauliflower Mash
   For a lower-carb option, cauliflower mash is creamy and delicious, similar to traditional mashed potatoes but lighter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Bold Preparation Steps: Skipping the step of whisking the broth and gravy mix can lead to lumps. Always whisk until smooth before pouring it over the meatballs.
• Bold Cooking Time Misjudgment: Cooking for too little or too long can affect texture. Stick to the recommended 5-6 hours on low for the best results.
• Bold Ignoring Thickeners: Forgetting to add the cornstarch slurry can result in a watery gravy. Mix it in about 30 minutes before serving for a rich sauce.
• Bold Not Stirring Properly: Failing to stir after adding the sauce can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure everything is well combined before covering the slow cooker.
• Bold Using Unfrozen Meatballs: Using fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones can change cooking times. Always start with frozen meatballs for this recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covering loosely, for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes! Homemade meatballs can be used but may require adjustments in cooking time. Ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the brown gravy mix and onion soup mix with gluten-free versions available at most grocery stores or use cornstarch as a thickener without added mixes.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like mushrooms or green beans during cooking will enhance flavor and nutrition. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)?

These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them on a sub roll for a delicious sandwich!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is an easy and heartwarming dish perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich gravy and tender meatballs, it’s customizable—add your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings as you like. Give this comforting meal a try today!