Description
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe brings together the classic flavors of Salisbury steak with the ease and convenience of a slow cooker. Tender meatballs simmer in a rich, savory gravy made with Worcestershire sauce, brown gravy mix, and earthy mushrooms. The slow cooking process allows the meatballs to absorb the flavors, resulting in a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (25 oz) bag frozen meatballs (about 40 meatballs)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (about 8 oz)
- 1 ½ cups water
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 packets brown gravy mix (1.74 oz total)
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Gather Your Ingredients
Ensure you have all your ingredients ready before starting to cook. This preparation step, known as mise en place, helps keep the process smooth and prevents missing any key components. Have your frozen meatballs, Worcestershire sauce, sliced mushrooms, brown gravy mix, and seasonings all measured and prepped. - Slice the Mushrooms
If your mushrooms aren’t pre-sliced, slice them into thin, even pieces. About ¼ inch thick slices work best to ensure they cook evenly in the slow cooker and blend well with the gravy.
Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker
- Add the Meatballs and Mushrooms
Place the frozen meatballs at the bottom of your slow cooker in an even layer. Spread the sliced mushrooms over the meatballs to ensure they cook evenly. The meatballs will absorb the gravy as they cook, and the mushrooms will add depth of flavor to the sauce. - Make the Sauce Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups water, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and 2 packets of brown gravy mix. Whisk everything together until the gravy mix dissolves completely and the sauce is smooth. This gravy will thicken as it cooks and coat the meatballs and mushrooms. - Pour the Sauce Over the Meatballs
Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the meatballs and mushrooms in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure the meatballs and mushrooms are coated evenly with the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Set the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Set it to low and cook for 4 to 6 hours for the most tender meatballs. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, but keep in mind that the low setting gives the flavors more time to meld and results in a more tender final dish. - Stir Occasionally (Optional)
If possible, stir the meatballs and gravy once or twice during cooking. This helps distribute the flavors evenly and prevents the meatballs from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker. - Check for Doneness
The meatballs are done when they are heated through and tender. If you want to check for precise doneness, the internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C). The gravy should be thickened and coating the meatballs well.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Adjust the Seasoning
Once the meatballs are done, taste the gravy and add salt and pepper as needed. Depending on the saltiness of the gravy mix and Worcestershire sauce, you may not need to add much additional seasoning. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs over your choice of egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice. These sides will soak up the delicious gravy and create a hearty, comforting meal. For a touch of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top.
Notes
- Meatball Options: While this recipe uses frozen meatballs for convenience, you can substitute them with fresh or homemade meatballs. If using fresh, adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
- Mushroom Substitutions: If mushrooms aren’t to your liking, feel free to swap them out with other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or carrots, or omit them altogether.
- Gravy Consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick during cooking, add a small amount of water or broth to thin it out. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes to help the sauce reduce and thicken.
- Seasoning Tip: Since both the Worcestershire sauce and brown gravy mix add salt, taste the dish before adding any extra seasoning to avoid oversalting. Adjust according to your preferences.
- Meal Prep and Leftovers: This recipe is great for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to refresh the gravy.
- Dietary Adjustments: For gluten-free or low-sodium diets, use gluten-free gravy mix and low-sodium Worcestershire sauce. Vegetarian meatballs can also be used for a meatless version.