Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

Short Description

Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs are a comforting, flavorful dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a rich, savory brown gravy. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the hard work, making it a great set-it-and-forget-it meal.
• Rich, Comforting Flavor – The brown gravy is packed with umami-rich ingredients, creating a deeply savory taste.
• Versatile Pairings – Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to suit your preference.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Store leftovers easily for future meals.
• Kid-Friendly – A delicious, comforting dish the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Worcestershire sauce
• Onion
• Garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Beef broth
• Brown gravy mix
• Mushrooms
• Tomato paste
• Dijon mustard
• Cornstarch
• Water

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well incorporated.
2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Sear the Meatballs (Optional): For extra flavor and texture, lightly brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker.
4. Prepare the Gravy: In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, brown gravy mix, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
5. Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced mushrooms at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the meatballs on top, then pour the gravy mixture over them.
6. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
7. Thicken the Gravy: In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
8. Serve: Enjoy the meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs – Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Version – Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth for a meat-free alternative.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Cheesy Meatballs – Mix shredded cheese into the meatball mixture for a cheesy surprise.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that the gravy mix is gluten-free.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?

Yes! Simply add frozen meatballs directly to the slow cooker and extend the cooking time by about 30 minutes.

Do I need to brown the meatballs first?

Browning is optional but enhances flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes! Simmer the meatballs and gravy in a covered pot over low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

What can I serve with Salisbury meatballs?

Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, roasted vegetables, or a side salad all pair well with this dish.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, just ensure your gravy mix and breadcrumbs are dairy-free, and avoid adding cheese.

How do I thicken the gravy without cornstarch?

Use flour, arrowroot powder, or instant mashed potatoes as a thickening alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the meatballs and gravy the night before and store them separately in the fridge. Add everything to the slow cooker the next day.

How can I make this meal healthier?

Use lean ground meat, low-sodium broth, and whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier version.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Carrots, peas, or bell peppers are great additions for extra nutrients and flavor.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough binding ingredients like egg and breadcrumbs, and avoid overmixing the meat mixture.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs are an easy and delicious meal that combines classic comfort flavors with the convenience of slow cooking. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Try it with different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort!

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