Step-by-step instructions
Making these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a breeze. Follow these steps for a mouthwatering meal:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko bread crumbs, half of the onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix gently until blended; be careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs and arrange them in a single layer inside the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, the remaining onion soup mix, and the diced onion.
- Pour this creamy gravy mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the meatballs are tender and cooked through.
- Before serving, gently stir to coat the meatballs in the rich gravy. Serve hot over creamy mashed potatoes, adding generous spoonfuls of gravy on top.
Best ways to enjoy it
These meatballs shine when served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, but don’t stop there! Consider pairing them with steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition. Another delicious option is to serve them over egg noodles or even rice. And don’t forget about a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that burst of color!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is simple. Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them into an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in portions. They should be good for about 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some tips to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time:
- Mix gently: When combining the meatball ingredients, handling the mixture too much can result in tough meatballs.
- Uniform shape: Try to make your meatballs the same size for even cooking.
- Add fresh herbs: A touch of fresh parsley or thyme could elevate these meatballs even further.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes! Add diced mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra flavor or swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken for a different spin. For a touch of heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the gravy. You can even opt for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to cater to dietary preferences.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for these meatballs?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, followed by hours of delicious cooking in the slow cooker.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe.
Is it safe to store leftovers?
Yes, as long as you cool them completely before refrigeration or freezing them properly in airtight containers.
These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are sure to become a beloved dinner option at your house. Enjoy the process and the comforting flavors that come to life in every bite!
