There’s something undeniably comforting about the rich, savory flavors of Salisbury steak, and when you combine it with the tender, juicy goodness of meatballs, you’ve got a dish that’s sure to warm the soul. Introducing our Hearty Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs – a recipe that’s equal parts delicious and easy to prepare.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly seasoned meatball, coated in a luscious, gravy-like sauce that’s bursting with umami notes. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. But this isn’t just any ordinary Salisbury steak meatball recipe – it’s a game-changer that’s designed to be cooked low and slow in the crockpot, infusing every bite with incredible flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or simply craving a comforting meal, these Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs are sure to impress. So, grab your apron, fire up the slow cooker, and let’s dive into this delectable dish!
What Makes This Recipe a Total Winner ?
What sets this Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatball recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and the unbelievably tender, juicy texture. The meatballs are made with a blend of ground beef and pork, which gives them a rich, savory taste and a wonderfully satisfying bite. The crockpot cooking method ensures that the meatballs stay moist and tender, while the creamy, beefy gravy-like sauce infuses every morsel with irresistible flavor.
But it’s not just the taste that makes this recipe a standout. It’s also the sheer convenience of it all. By letting the crockpot do the work, you can enjoy a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply toss the ingredients together, set it and forget it – and when dinnertime rolls around, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that’s ready to serve.
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
The key ingredients in this recipe are the blend of ground beef and pork, which lend a rich, savory flavor to the meatballs. The breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together, while the milk and eggs add moisture and tenderness. The onion, garlic, and seasonings provide a robust, well-rounded flavor profile that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Instructions
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can result in tough meatballs. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika until well combined.
- Assemble and Cook: Place the meatballs in a large crockpot or slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are evenly coated. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring gently halfway through, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Enjoy this comforting, delicious meal!
Timing Overview
• Cook time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 6 servings.
• Protein: 27 g
• Sodium: 1158 mg
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fat: 26 g
• Fiber: 2 g
How to Adapt This Recipe for Your Needs ?
• To Make it Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef and pork with a plant-based meat alternative, such as crumbled tofu or a vegetarian ground “meat” product. Use a vegetable-based broth instead of beef broth.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Mix in a tablespoon of hot sauce or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little extra heat.
Finishing Touches That Make a Difference
• Garnish Suggestions: Top the meatballs with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives, and a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for a touch of freshness and tanginess.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot. For a non-alcoholic option, a crisp, refreshing iced tea or lemonade would also be a delightful accompaniment.
Common Missteps and How to Fix Them ?
• Mistake 2 – Watery Sauce: If the sauce seems too thin or watery, you can thicken it up by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch or all-purpose flour with a few tablespoons of the sauce in a small bowl, then stirring the mixture back into the crockpot. This will help the sauce cling better to the meatballs.
• Mistake 3 – Bland Flavor: If the dish lacks flavor, you can easily amp it up by adding more Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, or a sprinkle of additional seasoning, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Storing Your Dish Without Losing Flavor
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the meatballs to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. When ready to serve, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat the meatballs, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until hot.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork?
Absolutely! You can certainly substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and pork in this recipe. The meatballs may have a slightly different texture and flavor, but they’ll still be delicious. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as turkey and chicken can dry out more quickly than beef and pork.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of cooking them in the crockpot?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs instead of slow-cooking them in the crockpot. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through. Then, transfer the meatballs to a baking dish, pour the sauce over the top, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace the milk with an unsweetened, dairy-free milk alternative, such as almond, oat, or soy milk. You can also use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, or make your own creamy sauce using a plant-based milk and a bit of cornstarch or flour to thicken it up.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make the meatballs in advance. Simply follow the instructions for forming the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble the dish in the crockpot. This can save you a lot of time on the day you plan to serve the Salisbury steak meatballs.
How can I make this recipe low-carb?
To make this recipe low-carb, you can swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds. You’ll also want to use a low-carb cream of mushroom soup and replace the regular beef broth with a low-sodium, low-carb version. Serve the meatballs over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a delicious, keto-friendly meal.
A Delicious Ending and a New Beginning
As the aroma of these Hearty Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs fills your kitchen, you’ll know you’re in for a truly special meal. The combination of tender, flavorful meatballs and the rich, creamy sauce is the ultimate comfort food – a dish that’s sure to bring your family and friends together around the table.
Whether you serve these meatballs over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, tangled with egg noodles, or alongside a fresh salad, you’re guaranteed to have a hit on your hands. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try – it just might become your new go-to for cozy, satisfying weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Bon appétit!
And who knows, this Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatball recipe could be the start of a beautiful new culinary adventure for you. Experiment with different flavor profiles, try out unique garnishes, or come up with your own creative twists. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination. So, let’s dive in and savor the deliciousness of this dish, one bite at a time.
📍 Hearty Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can result in tough meatballs. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika until well combined.
- Place the meatballs in a large crockpot or slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are evenly coated. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring gently halfway through, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Enjoy this comforting, delicious meal!
