Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) recipe is the ultimate comfort food you need in your life. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you just want to indulge in a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep time and the slow cooker doing all the work, these savory meatballs simmer in a rich gravy, making it a delightful dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the magic—no extensive cooking skills required!
• Rich and savory flavor: The combination of beef broth and gravy mix creates a deliciously comforting sauce that enhances the meatballs.
• Versatile serving options: Serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta—ideal for any side dish preference.
• Meal prep-friendly: Prepare this dish ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Family favorite: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its hearty taste and satisfying texture.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking; it allows flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors in your sauce.
• Whisk: Helps to achieve a lump-free mixture when combining liquid ingredients, resulting in a smooth gravy.

Ingredients

This easy and comforting dish uses frozen meatballs combined with savory beef broth and a rich gravy mix.

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

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

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

Follow these simple steps for a delicious dinner:

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs directly into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

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

Make sure everything is well combined until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Sauce and Meatballs

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

Step 4: Cook on Low Heat

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Cornstarch
2. Cold water

Stir well until it forms a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, add this mixture to thicken your gravy by stirring it into the slow cooker.

Step 6: Serve

Once thickened, serve your Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal!

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

Serving Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a great way to enjoy a comforting meal. With their rich gravy and tender meatballs, they pair well with various sides.

Over Mashed Potatoes

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

On Rice

• Serve the meatballs over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and filling.

With Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles offer a delightful texture that complements the sauce beautifully. Toss the noodles in the gravy for added flavor.

In a Sub Sandwich

• For a twist, place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll. Top with cheese for a tasty sandwich option that’s perfect for lunch.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair the meatballs with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a balanced meal that adds color and nutrients.

As Sliders

• Make mini sliders by placing meatballs on small buns. Add your favorite toppings for fun appetizers or party food.

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

To ensure your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Reduced-Sodium Broth: This helps control salt levels while still providing rich flavor.
• Mix Ingredients Well: Whisk together your broth and seasonings thoroughly to avoid clumps in your gravy.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meatballs tender.
• Thicken at the Right Time: Add cornstarch slurry about 30 minutes before serving to achieve a luscious gravy consistency.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed; you can add more Worcestershire sauce or ketchup for extra depth.
• Keep it Covered: Always cover the slow cooker during cooking to retain moisture and enhance flavor.

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

Complementing your meal with the right side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A crispy garlic bread slice is perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy from your plate.
2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
3. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make an excellent, hearty side that pairs well with gravy.
4. Mashed Cauliflower
   For a lighter alternative, mashed cauliflower provides creaminess without the carbs of traditional mashed potatoes.
5. Green Salad
   A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and helps cut through the richness of the dish.
6. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is not only delicious but also adds a pop of color to your plate.
7. Baked Beans
   Sweet baked beans complement savory flavors nicely, making them an excellent pairing alongside meatballs.
8. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus is elegant and adds a touch of sophistication to your meal without overwhelming it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) can be a delightful meal, but some common mistakes can hinder the experience. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Using Regular Beef Broth: Regular beef broth can be too salty. Opt for reduced-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness and enhance flavor.
• Not Mixing Sauces Thoroughly: If the sauces are not mixed well before pouring over the meatballs, you may end up with uneven flavor. Always whisk until smooth to ensure even distribution.
• Overcooking Meatballs: Cooking for too long can lead to dry meatballs. Stick to the recommended cooking time of 5-6 hours on low for tender meatballs.
• Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry: This step is essential for thickening your gravy. Don’t skip it; mix cornstarch with cold water as instructed to achieve a rich consistency.
• Failing to Stir Occasionally: Leaving the mixture untouched may cause uneven cooking. Stir occasionally during cooking for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

• Allow to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs).

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, homemade meatballs work well too! Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Spices like garlic powder or onion powder can also enhance taste.

Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?

While it adds depth of flavor, you can omit it if preferred. Consider substituting with soy sauce for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) is an easy yet comforting dish that brings joy and satisfaction at dinner time. It’s perfect for busy evenings and allows room for customization. Try adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it truly your own!