Indulge in a comforting and flavorful meal with these Crock Pot Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Perfectly seasoned meatballs simmered in a rich and savory mushroom gravy, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, these meatballs are sure to satisfy your cravings. Join us as we delve into the details of this delicious recipe, including ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen? A: Absolutely! Homemade meatballs can be used if you prefer. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
Q: Can I substitute the brown gravy mix with homemade gravy? A: Yes, you can make homemade gravy using beef broth, flour, and seasonings if you prefer to avoid using packaged mixes.
Q: How long do I need to cook the meatballs in the crockpot? A: Cook the meatballs on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until they are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
Ingredients:
- Frozen Meatballs: The star of the recipe, these convenient pre-made meatballs save time and effort, providing a hearty protein base for the dish.
- Brown Mushrooms: Sliced and cooked with the meatballs, earthy mushrooms add an umami flavor and a meaty texture to the dish.
- Yellow Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Low Sodium Beef Broth: Serves as the base of the mushroom gravy, providing a rich and savory flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
- Brown Gravy Mix: Adds depth and richness to the gravy, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a tangy and savory note to the meatballs and gravy, enhancing the overall umami taste.
- Ketchup: Brings a touch of sweetness and tanginess to the dish, balancing the flavors.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the meatballs, complementing the other ingredients.
- Black Pepper: Adds a warm and peppery kick, elevating the flavors and giving the dish a hint of spice.
- Minced Garlic: Infuses the dish with a bold and aromatic garlic flavor.
- Slurry: Both cornstarch and water are used to thicken the gravy; the slurry helps create a velvety texture, coating the meatballs and ensuring a satisfying consistency.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the mushrooms, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown gravy mix with beef broth until well combined.
2. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot:
- Place the frozen meatballs in the crockpot, followed by the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and black pepper.
- Pour the brown gravy mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
4. Thicken the Gravy:
- In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the crockpot, allowing the gravy to thicken for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the gravy has thickened, give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them evenly.
- Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy with your favorite side dishes.
Cook Notes:
- For extra flavor, you can sauté the onions and mushrooms before adding them to the crockpot.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more Worcestershire sauce or black pepper if desired.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meatballs with plant-based meatballs or cooked lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the gravy for a spicy kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
To make this recipe keto or low-carb-friendly, consider the following modifications:
- Use homemade meatballs made with ground beef or turkey instead of frozen meatballs.
- Replace the brown gravy mix with a homemade keto-friendly gravy made with beef broth, xanthan gum, and seasonings.
- Serve the meatballs over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
With its rich and savory flavors, Crock Pot Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So fire up your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dish that will keep everyone coming back for more!
