Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) recipe is a delightful and hassle-free way to enjoy a classic comfort dish any day of the week. Combining frozen meatballs with savory beef broth and rich gravy, this meal is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying dinner. It’s great for gatherings, weeknight meals, or cozy weekends at home, delivering robust flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just five minutes of prep time, you can set this dish in the slow cooker and go about your day.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of beef broth and gravy makes this dish rich and savory, reminiscent of traditional Salisbury steak.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!
• Family-Friendly Meal: Everyone loves meatballs! This recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Let the slow cooker do all the work while you focus on other tasks.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious meal, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process. Having the right tools makes everything easier!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this recipe! It allows for hands-off cooking while deepening the flavors through slow simmering.
• Mixing bowl: A necessary tool for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Perfect for ensuring that your gravy mix blends smoothly without lumps.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your dish.

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 Gravy 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)

Step 1: Place the Meatballs

Start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into your slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them first; they will cook perfectly in their frozen state.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Make sure everything is well combined until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Mixture

Pour your sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Gently stir to ensure all meatballs are coated evenly with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while heating through and tenderizing the meatballs.

Step 5: Prepare Cornstarch Slurry

About 30 minutes before serving, create a slurry by mixing cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until fully blended.

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy

Stir your cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker. This will thicken up your gravy for a rich finish to your meal.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once thickened, serve your delicious Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside your favorite side dishes. Enjoy this comforting meal!

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

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs make for a hearty and delicious meal. Serving these meatballs creatively can enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• A classic pairing that adds creaminess and absorbs the rich gravy perfectly.

With Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the savory sauce for a filling meal.

On a Sub Roll

• Create a meatball sub by placing the meatballs in a toasted roll, topped with cheese for a satisfying sandwich.

With Vegetables

• Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that adds color and nutrients.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve over egg noodles or pasta for a comforting twist that complements the gravy.

As an Appetizer

• Offer meatballs as finger food at parties, allowing guests to enjoy them with toothpicks and dipping sauces.

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

To get the most out of your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs, consider these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use quality broth – Opt for reduced-sodium beef broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor.
• Customize seasonings – Feel free to add garlic powder or black pepper for extra flavor.
• Thicken the gravy – Use cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking for a rich, velvety gravy consistency.
• Cook on low – Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping meatballs tender.
• Add veggies – Consider adding mushrooms or onions during cooking for added texture and nutrition.
• Garnish before serving – Fresh herbs like parsley can brighten up the dish right before serving.

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

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes with garlic add flavor and complement the rich gravy beautifully.
2. Steamed Broccoli – A fresh and healthy side that balances out the richness of the meatballs.
3. Roasted Carrots – Sweet, caramelized carrots bring color and sweetness to your plate.
4. Green Salad – A simple mixed green salad offers crunch and freshness with your savory main dish.
5. Buttered Corn – Sweet corn adds an easy-to-make, vibrant side that pairs well with beef dishes.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
7. Fried Rice – A flavorful option that incorporates vegetables and makes this meal even heartier.
8. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that complements the warm, hearty meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the most of your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs), steer clear of these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the Broth: Not using enough broth can lead to dry meatballs. Always ensure you have enough liquid for the meatballs to soak in while cooking.
• Overcooking: Cooking for too long can make meatballs tough. Stick to the recommended cooking time of 5-6 hours on low for best results.
• Not Thicken the Gravy: Forgetting to add the cornstarch slurry means missing out on a rich gravy. Make sure to use it about 30 minutes before serving.
• Using Regular Salt: Using regular beef broth instead of reduced-sodium could make the dish overly salty. Opt for reduced-sodium options to control saltiness.
• Ignoring Serving Suggestions: Serving without a side can leave your meal unbalanced. Pair the meatballs with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep them 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.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs).

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

You can certainly use homemade meatballs! Just adjust the cooking time if they are larger or smaller than standard frozen ones.

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

These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles. A side of steamed vegetables adds freshness!

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

Simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping your slow cooker’s capacity in mind. Ensure even cooking by mixing well.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These meatballs store and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) offer a deliciously comforting and versatile meal option. With easy preparation and rich flavors, they can be customized with different sides or sauces. Give this delightful dish a try and enjoy its warm, hearty goodness!