Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, then you’ve come to the right place! This recipe for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) is a family favorite in my house. It’s one of those magical dishes that brings everyone together, filling the home with delicious aromas while I focus on other things. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, you’ll find it’s an easy way to serve up smiles around the dinner table.

What makes this dish so special is how it combines frozen meatballs with savory gravy and beef broth. You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up! Just set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the hard work.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its thing—no fuss, no mess!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves the rich gravy and tender meatballs; it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in the morning, and have a warm meal ready when you get home—ideal for busy schedules.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta—there’s no wrong way to enjoy them!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are not only simple but also wholesome. Most are pantry staples, making this dish an easy go-to for any day of the week.

For the Meatballs and Sauce

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)
• 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own by trying out these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños if you’re craving a little kick.
• Try different sauces: Switch up the gravy by using mushroom sauce instead or even a creamy ranch dressing.

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

Step 1: Place the Meatballs

Start by placing your frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. This is where all the magic happens! No need to thaw them first—the slow cooker will heat them perfectly as they cook away in that delicious sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This step is crucial because it creates a flavorful base that will coat those meatballs beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour your prepared sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure each meatball is coated with that luscious sauce. It’s all about making sure every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until those meatballs are heated through and tender. The longer they cook, the more they soak up that savory goodness from the sauce. Trust me; you want to give them time to soak up all that flavor!

Step 5: Thicken Up That Gravy

In a small bowl, mix together your cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir this slurry into your slow cooker mixture. This will thicken up your gravy nicely, giving it that perfect consistency for serving.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Once your sauce has thickened up beautifully, it’s time to serve! Ladle those tasty meatballs and rich gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or whatever side dish makes your heart happy. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Making this dish is straightforward, but a few tips can elevate your experience even further!

• Use quality frozen meatballs: Choosing high-quality frozen meatballs ensures a better texture and flavor, making your dish taste more homemade.
• Adjust the seasoning: If you prefer a bolder flavor, add garlic powder or black pepper to the gravy mix. This little tweak can enhance the overall taste of your meal.
• Thicken to your liking: If you prefer a thicker gravy, simply add more cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, you can customize the texture based on your preferences.
• Cook on low for best results: Cooking on low for the full time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the meatballs enough time to become tender and juicy.
• Add veggies for nutrition: Tossing in some frozen peas or sliced mushrooms during the last hour of cooking can introduce extra nutrients and flavors without adding much prep time.

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

This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Here are some delightful ways to present it that will surely impress!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the gravy.
• Sliced green onions: These bring a mild onion flavor that complements the dish while also adding a lovely crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are classic and perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy. For added flavor, consider mixing in roasted garlic or cream cheese.
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable not only adds color but its slight bitterness balances out the richness of the meatballs and gravy.
• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs provides a wonderful base for the meatballs, making each bite utterly satisfying.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots make an excellent side that contrasts nicely with savory flavors while adding essential vitamins.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs will be a hit at any table! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for future meals, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the meatballs and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and recipe name for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covered, stirring halfway through until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious meal!

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Absolutely! While frozen meatballs make this recipe super convenient, homemade ones will also work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time based on their size.

How long can I keep Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs) in the fridge?

You can safely store these meatballs in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness!

Is there a vegetarian option for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Yes! You can substitute meatballs with plant-based alternatives available at most grocery stores. Just be mindful of their cooking instructions as they may differ from traditional meatballs.

What sides go well with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

These meatballs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles. You could also serve them alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs as much as I do! This recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s a meal that brings everyone together at the table. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home too!