Origin and Region: Salisbury steak is a classic dish in American cuisine, believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It was named after Dr. J. H. Salisbury, an American physician who advocated for a meat-centered diet. While traditionally prepared as a large beef patty served with gravy, this recipe transforms the dish into meatballs and adds the convenience of a slow cooker. Salisbury steak is popular throughout the United States and is often enjoyed as a comforting and hearty meal.
Introduction: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delicious twist on the classic Salisbury steak dish. These tender and flavorful meatballs are cooked low and slow in a savory gravy, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Mashed potatoes
- Cooked egg noodles
- Steamed rice
Tips:
- Use lean ground beef for the meatballs to reduce excess fat.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Customize the seasoning of the meatballs by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- For a richer flavor, substitute some of the beef broth with red wine.
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and mushrooms. Cook until softened and lightly browned, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, and flour until smooth. Pour the mixture over the meatballs, onions, and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired, and accompanied by mashed potatoes, cooked egg noodles, or steamed rice.
Description: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are tender beef meatballs cooked in a savory gravy with onions and mushrooms. This comforting and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, and the slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare. Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, based on typical ingredients and serving size)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 11g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 23g
Conclusion: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delicious and convenient twist on the classic Salisbury steak dish. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Enjoy the tender and flavorful meatballs served with a rich and savory gravy for a comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Recommendation: Customize this recipe to your taste preferences by adding additional herbs or spices to the meatballs or adjusting the thickness of the gravy. Serve the meatballs with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the convenience of the slow cooker for easy preparation and cleanup, making this recipe a go-to option for busy days.