If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal effort, look no further than these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. This recipe combines tender, juicy meatballs with a rich and savory mushroom gravy, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for the family or a fuss-free meal prep for the week, these Salisbury Steak Meatballs are sure to hit the spot. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy-to-make recipe!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme. Use your hands to mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, approximately the size of a golf ball. You should get about 18-20 meatballs. Place them on a plate and set aside.
- Brown the Meatballs (Optional): For added flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is optional but recommended for a richer taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, mushrooms, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Stir to combine.
- Add the Meatballs: Gently place the meatballs into the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Thicken the Gravy: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve the Meatballs: Once the gravy has thickened, serve the Salisbury Steak Meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these meatballs with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. They also work well with egg noodles or over rice.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Tips: To freeze, allow the meatballs to cool completely. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop over low heat.
Helpful Notes
- Browning the Meatballs: While this step is optional, browning the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker adds a deeper flavor to the dish. It helps seal in the juices and gives the meatballs a delicious, caramelized exterior.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef and pork with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay’s Tip: Always mix your meatball ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
- Chef Ina Garten’s Tip: To add an extra depth of flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in butter or olive oil before adding them to the meat mixture.
- Chef Jamie Oliver’s Tip: For a richer gravy, add a splash of red wine to the beef broth and let it simmer for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
- How do I make the gravy thicker?
- If the gravy is too thin, add more cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
- Absolutely! Sliced carrots, potatoes, or peas would make great additions to this dish. Just add them at the beginning of the cooking process.
- Can I make this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and gravy up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and cook in the slow cooker when ready.
- What can I use instead of mushrooms?
- If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, try substituting them with sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even baby spinach.
- Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?
- Yes, you can cook the meatballs and gravy in a large pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
- You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a combination of soy sauce and balsamic vinegar for a similar umami flavor.
- How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
- Ensure that you do not overmix the meat mixture, and make sure to use the egg and breadcrumbs as they act as binding agents.
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, ground lamb or a mix of different meats can also work, but the flavor profile will change accordingly.
- Is there a dairy-free option?
- Yes, use a dairy-free milk alternative (like almond or oat milk) and ensure that the breadcrumbs are also dairy-free.
Enjoy these comforting and easy-to-make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs for a delicious dinner any night of the week!
