Get ready to enjoy my Savory Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs! This recipe combines juicy ground beef and pork for a rich flavor, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Let’s dive in and create a comforting meal that your whole family will adore!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef
– ½ lb ground pork
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients create a rich and hearty dish. You can mix ground beef and pork for depth. The breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. Chopped onion and minced garlic add flavor and aroma. Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard offer a savory kick.
Essential Cooking Tools
– Slow cooker
– Skillet for browning
– Mixing bowl
– Measuring cups and spoons
A slow cooker makes this dish simple and hands-free. A skillet helps brown the meatballs, adding flavor. Use a mixing bowl to combine the ingredients easily. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy for best results.
For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions provided earlier.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
– In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, ½ lb ground pork, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 finely chopped onion, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper.
– Mix well until everything is combined.
– Form the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball. You should get around 12 to 15 meatballs.
Browning the Meatballs
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
– Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is optional but adds great flavor and a nice texture.
Slow Cooking the Meatballs
– Transfer the browned meatballs to the slow cooker.
– In the same skillet, pour in 2 cups of beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
– Bring the broth to a simmer, then pour it over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
– Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms on top of the meatballs.
– Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
– If you like a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
– Serve the meatballs with mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
For the full recipe, check the main article.
Tips & Tricks
Browning Benefits
Browning meatballs gives them great flavor and texture. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook the meatballs until they are brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. This step is not a must, but I highly recommend it. The caramelization adds depth to the dish. The slow cooker will finish the cooking, keeping the meatballs tender.
Thickening the Gravy
If you love a thick gravy, you can use cornstarch. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry. Add this slurry to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir it well. This will make your sauce rich and smooth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. The gravy will soak into the sides, creating a tasty meal. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This not only looks great but also adds a fresh flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change the meat in this recipe. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. These meats are leaner and still taste great. They will give your meatballs a lighter flavor while keeping them juicy. Just remember to adjust your cooking time if needed, since leaner meats can cook faster.
Flavor Additions
Do you want to spice things up? You can add different herbs and spices to the meatball mixture. Try adding Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. You can also sneak in some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or carrots. This not only boosts flavor but also adds nutrition. Get creative and make it your own!
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free meal, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can also use almond flour as a great alternative. This keeps the meatballs tender while making them safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check labels to ensure your ingredients fit your dietary needs.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
After cooking, let the meatballs cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. Add the mushroom gravy on top to keep them moist. Store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the meatballs fresh and ready for your next meal.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze meatballs, first, let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to squeeze out all the air before sealing. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your leftover meatballs will last about 3-4 days. If you freeze them, they can stay safe for 3 months. Just remember to check for any signs of freezer burn. Enjoy your slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs anytime! For the full recipe, check the main article.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Cooking these meatballs takes time, but it’s worth it. If you set your slow cooker to low, it will take about 6 to 8 hours. If you are short on time, cooking on high takes only 3 to 4 hours. Just make sure the meatballs are cooked through and tender before serving.
Can you prepare these meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare these meatballs ahead of time. Mix the meatball ingredients and form them into balls. Place them on a tray and freeze them for a few hours. Once frozen, store them in a freezer bag. You can cook them straight from frozen; just add a little extra time to the cooking process. This saves time on busy days.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
If you want to switch up the flavor, you have options. Chicken broth gives a lighter taste. Vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version. You can even use mushroom broth for an earthy flavor. Each option brings its own twist and keeps the dish tasty.
In this blog post, we explored how to make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. You learned about the key ingredients and essential tools needed. We discussed step-by-step instructions for preparing, browning, and slow cooking the meatballs. Plus, I shared tips for thickening the gravy and tasty serving ideas. You can even customize the recipe to fit your diet. Now, it’s time to try making your own. Enjoy the rich flavors and ease of this dish!
