Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Looking for a delicious and easy meal idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights? These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
• In a slow cooker, mix together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker and stir to coat.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through.
• Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
  
  Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.
• Can I freeze the meatballs before cooking?
  Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before cooking for a convenient make-ahead option. Just thaw before cooking in the slow cooker.
• Can I use homemade cream of mushroom soup?
  Yes, you can use homemade cream of mushroom soup in this recipe for a fresher and healthier alternative.
• Can I add other vegetables to the mix?
  
  Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
  Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats instead of breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Do I need to brown the meatballs before adding to the slow cooker?
  No, you can add the raw meatballs directly to the slow cooker without browning them first.
• Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
  
  Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for beef broth in this recipe for a vegetarian option.
• How long will leftovers last?
  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Can I double the recipe?
  You can double the ingredients in this recipe to make more servings, just make sure they fit in your slow cooker.
• Can I add cheese to the meatballs?
  
  Adding shredded cheese to the meatball mixture can enhance the flavor and add a gooey texture.

Helpful tips:

• Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the meatball mixture for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Top the meatballs with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color.
• Serve the meatballs with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are cooked through before serving.
• Drizzle the meatballs with a little balsamic glaze for a tangy twist.
• For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of sour cream before serving.
• Try serving the meatballs on a bed of rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
• For a lighter option, serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles instead of mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

Expert Secrets:

• Allow the meatballs to rest in the slow cooker for 10-15 minutes after cooking to absorb more flavor from the sauce.
• For a crispy exterior, briefly sear the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a richer flavor profile.
• Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• For a smoky twist, add a dash of liquid smoke to the meatball mixture.
• Top the meatballs with caramelized onions for a sweet and savory flavor contrast.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
• Experiment with different types of mushrooms in the cream of mushroom soup for a variety of textures and flavors.
• For a creamy sauce, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
• Top the meatballs with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for added richness.