Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy Recipe
There’s something truly comforting about a hearty meal that practically cooks itself, and that’s where a slow cooker shines. Imagine coming home to the savory aroma of perfectly cooked meatballs swimming in rich, flavorful gravy. This slow cooker meatballs and gravy recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for busy weekdays and lazy weekends alike.
My grandmother used to make a similar dish for our big Sunday family dinners, and over the years, I’ve adapted her recipe to make it more convenient without compromising on flavor. It was a joy to watch her in the kitchen; she had this magic touch with spices and an endless patience for letting flavors meld together slowly. This adaptation retains the essence of her recipe while embracing modern tools like the slow cooker.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is as much about simplicity as it is about flavor. With minimal preparation, the slow cooker takes over, saving you precious time while maximizing taste. Plus, the meatballs are incredibly tender, and the gravy is packed with a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings or meal prep, offering versatility and comfort all in one pot.
Ingredients Notes
Our recipe calls for ground beef, but you can easily substitute with turkey for a leaner option. To add richness, consider using beef stock rather than just water. For the gravy, using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary will enhance the aromatic profile. Make sure to use fresh breadcrumbs to maintain the texture of the meatballs without them becoming too dense.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Prepare your meatball mixture by combining ground meat, breadcrumbs, minced onions, egg, and spices in a large bowl. Mix well but avoid over-mixing to prevent tough meatballs.
Step 2
Shape your mixture into uniformly sized balls, using a small scoop for consistency. Gently set each ball into the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, blend beef stock with a blend of spices and a dash of Worcestershire sauce to create the gravy base. Pour over the meatballs, ensuring they are completely covered.
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Step 4
Set your slow cooker on low and let the meatballs cook for 6-7 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and the meatballs to become tender.
Step 5
Before serving, thicken the gravy if needed. You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker, allowing it to cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Storage Options
Leftover meatballs and gravy can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. If you prefer freezing, separate the meatballs and gravy into individual portions before storing. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave for a quick meal anytime.
Variations & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding a splash of red wine to the gravy for richness or incorporate mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Vegetarians can substitute the meat with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth in place of beef stock for the gravy.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or pasta, soaking up the gravy perfectly. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish is also great for potlucks and family gatherings, offering a warming centerpiece that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of fresh? Yes, you can certainly use frozen meatballs to save even more time. Just add them directly to the slow cooker and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are heated through.
How can I make the gravy thicker? If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can use a cornstarch slurry. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, add it to the slow cooker, and let it cook for another 15-20 minutes to thicken.
What should I do if the gravy is too salty? Dilute the gravy by adding more liquid, like water or unsalted broth. You can also balance flavors by adding a touch of cream or a pinch of sugar to counteract the saltiness.
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Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef 85% lean
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup milk
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
- 1 cup beef broth low sodium
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
