Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

The aroma of savory Salisbury steak, melding with the comforting scent of simmering herbs, fills the kitchen, promising a hearty and satisfying meal. Each meatball, tender and flavorful, is ready to become the star of any dinner table.

I remember when weeknight dinners were a chaotic scramble, until I discovered the magic of slow cooking and frozen meatballs. This recipe brings back memories of cozy evenings and effortless cooking, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. It’s comfort food, elevated.

• Effortlessly prepare a complete meal by simply tossing frozen meatballs into the slow cooker, saving precious time and energy.
• Experience a symphony of flavors as the Salisbury steak sauce infuses every meatball, creating a rich and savory taste sensation.
• Enjoy a visually appealing dish, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, showcasing a delightful blend of colors and textures.
• Customize this recipe to suit any palate, serving these delectable meatballs over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or even in sandwiches.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Frozen Meatballs Use about 2 pounds of your favorite brand. This makes the recipe incredibly convenient, and the slow cooker ensures they cook perfectly through.

Beef Broth 1 cup of beef broth adds depth of flavor and helps create the delicious sauce. You can use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.

Onion Soup Mix One packet (about 1 ounce) of dry onion soup mix provides a concentrated savory flavor that complements the beef.

Ketchup Half a cup of ketchup adds sweetness and tanginess to the sauce, helping to balance the other flavors.

Worcestershire Sauce Two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce contribute a savory, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste profile of the Salisbury steak.

Dijon Mustard One tablespoon of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the sauce.

Cornstarch One tablespoon of cornstarch, mixed with two tablespoons of cold water, will thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Dried Parsley One tablespoon of dried parsley adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal to the finished dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In your slow cooker, whisk together the beef broth, onion soup mix, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. This flavorful base will create a rich and savory sauce for the meatballs.

Step 2: Add Meatballs

Gently stir in the frozen meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. This step is super easy and requires minimal effort.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on the meatballs to ensure they are cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Thicken Sauce

In the last 30 minutes of cooking time, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Pour the mixture into the slow cooker and stir well. Allow the sauce to thicken.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Stir in the dried parsley. Serve the Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To ensure culinary greatness with your slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs (frozen meatballs), start by browning the meatballs lightly in a skillet for enhanced flavor and texture. Next, prepare the gravy while the meatballs are browning, and then combine everything in the slow cooker for a harmonious blend.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Enhance your slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs (frozen meatballs) with a dash of Dijon mustard for a zesty kick. Consider adding sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrients. For a creamy twist, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs (frozen meatballs) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of broth when reheating to maintain moisture.

• Sear the frozen meatballs for a deeper, richer flavor before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the overall taste.
• Avoid over-crowding the slow cooker; work in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent the meatballs from sticking together.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning of the gravy before serving, adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or herbs to personalize it.

(Personal anecdote)

I remember the first time I made these for a potluck. Everyone raved about how delicious they were, and someone even asked for the recipe! Now, it’s a requested dish at every gathering.

The Allure of Salisbury Steak, Minus the Wait

We’ve all been there, staring into the freezer, willing something magical to jump out and become dinner. More often than not, it’s a bag of frozen meatballs staring back. But what if those humble meatballs could transform into something truly special, something that whispers comfort and home-cooked goodness? Enter our recipe for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs).

This isn’t your grandma’s Salisbury steak, although she’d probably approve. This is Salisbury steak, reimagined for the modern, slightly-chaotic kitchen, where time is a precious commodity and shortcuts are celebrated, not scorned. We’re taking frozen meatballs – yes, those little guys! – and turning them into a dish so flavorful, so comforting, so surprisingly easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with the traditional, labor-intensive version.

Forget spending hours meticulously shaping ground beef patties and hovering over a hot stove. This recipe embraces the convenience of frozen meatballs, letting the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. The result? Tender, juicy meatballs swimming in a savory, umami-rich gravy that’s just begging to be spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or even a pile of creamy polenta.

And the best part? This recipe is practically foolproof. Even if you’re the kind of cook who sets off the smoke alarm just boiling water (we’ve all been there, no judgement!), you can nail this dish. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner savior, perfect for busy families, impromptu gatherings, or those nights when you just need a big bowl of comfort food without the fuss.

From Freezer to Fabulous: Your Meatball Transformation Begins

Let’s be honest, frozen meatballs often get a bad rap. They’re often seen as bland, rubbery, and generally uninspired. But we’re here to tell you that frozen meatballs have untapped potential, just waiting to be unlocked. Think of them as a blank canvas, ready to absorb all the delicious flavors of our Salisbury steak gravy.

The key to transforming these frozen orbs into culinary gold is all in the sauce – or rather, the gravy. We’re talking a rich, savory concoction made with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (or a suitable, equally-flavorful substitute if you’re avoiding it), Dijon mustard, and a touch of ketchup for sweetness and tang. This gravy is the secret weapon that elevates these simple meatballs to Salisbury steak status.

Now, some might scoff at the idea of using frozen meatballs in a Salisbury steak recipe. “Sacrilege!” they might cry. But we say, why not? Life’s too short to spend hours in the kitchen when you can achieve equally delicious results with a few clever shortcuts. Plus, using frozen meatballs makes this recipe incredibly budget-friendly, which is always a win.

So, are you ready to embrace the frozen meatball revolution? Are you ready to ditch the kitchen stress and whip up a comforting, flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends? Then grab that bag of frozen meatballs and let’s get cooking!

The Salisbury Steak Gravy: Liquid Gold

The magic of this recipe truly lies in the gravy. It’s what transforms humble meatballs into something truly special. This isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill gravy. This is a savory, umami-rich elixir that clings to the meatballs, infusing them with flavor and creating a symphony of deliciousness in every bite.

We start with a base of rich beef broth, the foundation of any good Salisbury steak gravy. But we don’t stop there. We add a generous splash of Worcestershire sauce (or a delicious alternative), which provides that signature savory depth that’s essential to Salisbury steak. A touch of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, while a dollop of ketchup provides a hint of sweetness and balances out the savory flavors.

To thicken the gravy, we use a simple cornstarch slurry. This ensures that the gravy is thick and luscious, coating the meatballs perfectly and creating a delightful mouthfeel. But the real secret to this gravy is the slow cooking process. As the meatballs simmer in the gravy, they release their flavors, further enriching the sauce and creating a harmonious blend of deliciousness.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the gravy! Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can also add sliced mushrooms or onions to the slow cooker for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Slow Cooker Magic: Set It and Forget It

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly hands-off. Once you’ve browned the meatballs and whisked together the gravy, simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. This is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, when you don’t have time to slave over a hot stove.

The slow cooker allows the meatballs to simmer in the gravy for hours, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meatballs. The long cooking time also allows the flavors of the gravy to meld together, creating a rich and complex sauce.

Plus, using a slow cooker means less cleanup! Simply toss everything into the pot, set it, and forget it. When dinner is ready, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort and minimal dishes.

And if you’re short on time, you can even skip the browning step! While browning the meatballs adds extra flavor and texture, it’s not essential. If you’re really in a rush, simply toss the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker with the gravy. The meatballs will still cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond Mashed Potatoes

While mashed potatoes are the classic pairing for Salisbury steak, don’t be afraid to get creative with your serving suggestions! These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• **Mashed Potatoes:** The classic choice! For extra flavor, try adding roasted garlic, herbs, or a swirl of pesto to your mashed potatoes.
• **Rice:** Fluffy white rice or savory brown rice are both excellent choices. The rice soaks up the delicious gravy, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.
• **Noodles:** Egg noodles, buttered noodles, or even creamy pasta dishes are all great options. The gravy clings to the noodles, creating a decadent and flavorful dish.
• **Polenta:** Creamy polenta is a fantastic alternative to mashed potatoes. The smooth, rich polenta pairs perfectly with the savory meatballs and gravy.
• **Vegetables:** Serve your meatballs with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. This adds a healthy and nutritious element to your meal.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) are sure to be a hit!

Key Ingredient Substitutions

We understand that everyone has different dietary needs and preferences. That’s why we’ve included a few key ingredient substitutions to help you customize this recipe to your liking:

• **Worcestershire Sauce:** If you’re avoiding Worcestershire sauce, try using a combination of soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), balsamic vinegar, and a touch of molasses. This will create a similar savory and umami-rich flavor.
• **Beef Broth:** You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for the beef broth. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor of the gravy, but it will still be delicious.
• **Ketchup:** If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, try using tomato paste or tomato sauce instead of ketchup. You may need to add a touch of sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup, to balance out the flavors.
• **Frozen Meatballs:** While this recipe is designed for frozen meatballs, you can also use fresh meatballs. Simply brown them in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! The most important thing is to create a meal that you and your family will enjoy.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) are a lifesaver on busy weeknights. The combination of convenience, flavor, and simplicity makes this recipe a winner. Using frozen meatballs drastically cuts down on prep time, and the slow cooker does all the work. The result? Tender, flavorful meatballs swimming in a rich, savory gravy. It’s a simple dish that brings smiles all around. Enjoy!

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FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Just ensure your chosen ground meat is cooked through. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to guarantee they are safe to consume. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the fat content of your substitute. Trust your instincts, you’ve got this! If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try a blend of ground beef and ground turkey for a unique flavor profile.

What’s the best way to serve these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! Classic mashed potatoes are always a winner, soaking up that delicious gravy. But don’t stop there! Rice, egg noodles, or even creamy polenta make fantastic accompaniments. For a lighter option, serve them over a bed of zucchini noodles or alongside roasted vegetables. And if you’re feeling cheeky, pile them high on a toasted baguette for a meatball sub that will knock your socks off. So, grab your apron and create your perfect meatball masterpiece!

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)?

You bet! Adding veggies is a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrients and flavor. Diced onions, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even carrots would be delicious additions. Just toss them into the slow cooker along with the frozen meatballs and sauce. Keep in mind that the vegetables will release some moisture as they cook, so you may want to reduce the amount of beef broth slightly to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin.

How long do the Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) last in the refrigerator?

These delicious meatballs will happily hang out in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to reheat, you can use the microwave, stovetop, or even the oven. For best results, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent them from drying out during reheating. This is a perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights.