Ingredients:
- 1 (2 lb) bag of frozen meatballs
- 3 cups beef broth
- 5 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
- 2-3 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 packets of brown gravy mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 pack of mushrooms (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs in your crockpot. If you’re using mushrooms, add them to the crockpot as well.
- Make the Gravy Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, brown gravy mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Pour the Mixture Over Meatballs: Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs and mushrooms in the crockpot.
- Cook on High: Set your crockpot to “High” and cook for approximately 4 hours. This will allow the meatballs to cook through and absorb the flavors of the gravy.
- Make a Slurry: About 15-30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. This will help thicken the gravy.
- Stir in the Slurry: Gently stir the cornstarch slurry into the meatball and gravy mixture. Continue cooking for the remaining time until the gravy thickens.
- Serve: Serve your Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes or cooked egg noodles. The flavorful gravy pairs wonderfully with these sides.
Tips and Variations:
- Customize the seasonings to your taste. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a stroganoff-style twist.
- Consider adding frozen peas or green beans to the crockpot for added vegetables.
This recipe is not only delicious but also cost-effective, making it a great option for a family meal. Enjoy your savory Salisbury steak meatballs!
here are some additional tips and variations for your budget-friendly Salisbury steak meatballs:
1. Use Homemade Meatballs: If you have the time, you can make your own meatballs from scratch using ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Homemade meatballs can add an extra level of flavor and quality to the dish.
2. Customized Mushrooms: If you’re a fan of mushrooms, consider using a variety of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms for a richer and more complex flavor. Sauté them briefly before adding to the crockpot for a deeper taste.
3. Add Onions: Sautéed onions can add a sweet and savory element to the dish. Slice a few onions and cook them in a pan until caramelized, then add them to the crockpot along with the meatballs and mushrooms.
4. Low-Sodium Version: If you’re concerned about sodium intake, look for low-sodium beef broth and low-sodium brown gravy mix to make a healthier version of this dish.
5. Spicy Twist: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mixture.
6. Cooking Time: While 4 hours on high is convenient, you can also cook on low for 6-8 hours for an even more tender result. This is great for days when you want to leave the slow cooker on all day.
7. Serving Suggestion: Serve your Salisbury steak meatballs over rice, quinoa, or even with crusty bread for a change from mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
8. Freezer-Friendly: If you have leftovers, this dish freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for a quick and easy future meal.
9. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top of your dish before serving for a touch of freshness and color.
This budget-friendly and easy-to-make Salisbury steak meatballs recipe can be adapted to your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it with homemade meatballs, different mushrooms, or a little extra spice, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy!
Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Salisbury steak meatballs
1. Season the Meatballs Well: When making or using frozen meatballs, be sure to season them with salt, pepper, and other desired spices. This step is essential to ensure the meatballs themselves are flavorful.
2. Sear the Meatballs: Before adding the meatballs to the slow cooker, you can sear them in a hot skillet to create a browned crust. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the meatballs.
3. Use Homemade Gravy: While using packet gravy mix is convenient, making your own gravy from scratch can significantly improve the overall flavor of the dish. Start by making a roux (a mixture of fat and flour) and then gradually adding beef broth and seasonings to create a rich, homemade gravy.
4. Incorporate Aromatics: Sautéed onions and garlic can add depth and complexity to the gravy. Sauté them until they are soft and aromatic before adding them to the slow cooker.
5. Customize the Seasonings: Experiment with various seasonings to achieve the flavor profile you desire. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or paprika can add depth to the gravy. Adjust the Worcestershire sauce and ketchup to your taste.
6. Thicken the Gravy: If your gravy isn’t thickening to your liking, you can make a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) and add it to the slow cooker toward the end of the cooking time. This will help thicken the sauce.
7. Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Whenever possible, use high-quality meatballs, beef broth, and other ingredients to ensure a more delicious and authentic Salisbury steak flavor.
8. Balance the Flavors: Taste the gravy as it cooks and adjust the seasonings as needed to achieve a balanced and well-rounded flavor. This includes adjusting the salt, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup.
9. Cook Time and Temperature: Consider cooking the meatballs on the low setting for a longer period. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the meatballs to become tender.
10. Garnish and Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, garnish the Salisbury steak meatballs with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives. This adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
11. Serving Presentation: Serve the meatballs with the gravy spooned generously over them. Pair with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and consider adding a vegetable or salad for a well-rounded meal.
By following these secrets and tips, you can create Salisbury steak meatballs that are rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. These enhancements will take your comfort food to the next level, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy your culinary creation!
