Let’s talk about the ultimate comfort food—Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs! Imagine tender, juicy meatballs drenched in a savory gravy, all cooked to perfection with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting here, so you can sit back, relax, and savor the mouthwatering aroma as it fills your kitchen. Trust me, this dish is a game-changer. It’s the kind of recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or serving up something comforting for guests, this is your new go-to.
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
This recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients into a slow cooker—it’s about creating moments. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
Perfect for a casual family dinner, a dinner party, or just treating yourself after a long day. Imagine coming home to the smell of delicious meatballs cooking away in your slow cooker, knowing dinner is practically done! It’s great for any occasion.
Budget-Friendly
You don’t need to break the bank to make this meal. With simple ingredients that are easy to find, this dish proves that great flavor doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s all about making the most of what you have in your pantry!
Quick and Easy
No complicated steps here. The slow cooker does all the work, so all you need to do is mix, set it, and forget it! Even beginners will feel like pros with this recipe.
Customizable
Love bold flavors? Add a little cayenne. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to fit your taste. It’s super easy to tweak this recipe however you like.
Crowd-Pleasing
This dish is a guaranteed hit. The meatballs are tender, the gravy is rich, and everyone from kids to adults will love it. Plus, it’s a great way to impress without any fuss!

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make these meatballs a reality. Trust me, it’s simple, but the flavors are anything but basic:
- Ground Beef
- Onion Soup Mix
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Worcestershire Sauce
- Garlic Powder
- Salt and Pepper
- Beef Broth
- Gravy Mix
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
(Note: The full ingredients list with measurements is in the recipe card below!)
Instructions for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Ready to make the magic happen? Let’s dive into the steps. You’re just a few moments away from a comforting, hearty dish.
Prepare the Meatballs
Start by mixing the ground beef, onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to combine everything, but don’t overmix, or your meatballs might end up a little too dense.
Form the Meatballs
Once the mixture is ready, shape the meat into meatballs—about 1 inch in size. The smaller, the better for soaking up that gravy!
Slow Cook
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker, making sure they’re spaced out evenly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth and gravy mix until smooth. Pour this gravy mixture over the meatballs, covering them completely.
Let it Simmer
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When you open that lid, be ready for the aroma that will make your mouth water.
Finishing Touches
Once cooked, sprinkle fresh parsley over the meatballs for a pop of color and a fresh finish. This adds the perfect touch to your dish!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
This dish is already packed with flavor, but there are so many ways to make it even better!
Classic Sides
Pair these meatballs with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up all that delicious gravy. Or serve it over rice for a hearty meal.
Fresh Salad
A simple, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides the perfect contrast to the richness of the meatballs and gravy.
Crusty Bread
Warm, crusty bread is a must for this dish. It’s perfect for dipping into the gravy and soaking up all those flavors.
As a Standalone Dish
Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough on its own. Garnish with some fresh parsley, and you’re good to go!
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead
If you want to save some time, prep the meatballs the night before. Store them in the fridge, and pop them in the slow cooker the next day for an even quicker dinner!
Spice It Up
Feel free to add your favorite spices! A pinch of smoked paprika or some chili flakes can give it a little extra kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze the meatballs and gravy for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or slow cooker when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Sure! Here are 10 FAQs for the Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe:
FAQ
Q1: Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork would work great as a substitute for the ground beef. It might change the flavor slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Q2: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A2: This recipe is already dairy-free, but if you’re adding any extras like creamy mashed potatoes, just be sure to use dairy-free alternatives like plant-based butter or milk.
Q3: Can I use frozen meatballs?
A3: Yes! If you’re using frozen meatballs, you can skip making them from scratch. Just add them to the slow cooker with the gravy mix and adjust the cooking time by about 30 minutes, as frozen meatballs may take a little longer.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or slow cooker, adding a bit of extra broth if needed to keep them juicy.
Q5: Can I make this dish in the oven instead of the slow cooker?
A5: Yes, you can! After preparing the meatballs, bake them in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. Then, simmer the gravy separately on the stovetop and pour it over the baked meatballs.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to fit everything. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so check the meatballs a little earlier to ensure they’re cooked through.
Q7: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the meatballs?
A7: Yes! Feel free to add chopped onions, mushrooms, carrots, or even peas. Just toss them into the slow cooker along with the meatballs and gravy. They’ll soak up the flavors beautifully.
Q8: How can I make the gravy thicker?
A8: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can whisk in a bit of cornstarch or flour mixed with cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir it in and let the slow cooker continue cooking to thicken the sauce.
Q9: Can I freeze this dish for later?
A9: Yes! You can freeze the meatballs and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
Q10: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A10: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy the night before and store them in the fridge. The next day, just toss them into the slow cooker and let it do the work. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy days!
Conclusion
And there you have it—your new favorite comfort food, Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs! Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner, impressing guests at a gathering, or simply treating yourself to something hearty and satisfying, this dish is sure to hit the spot. With its rich gravy, tender meatballs, and minimal effort required, it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a culinary genius without the stress.
So, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. You deserve a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to be on your regular rotation. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to enjoy every bite!
PrintThe Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are packed with savory flavor, featuring tender beef meatballs in a rich, creamy gravy. This easy-to-make, comfort food recipe is perfect for family dinners. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (if cooked on low)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning them until they are browned on all sides. Transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add beef broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Pour the broth over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker, then add heavy cream. Stir well and let cook for an additional 20 minutes to thicken the gravy.
- Serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes or over rice, smothered in the savory gravy.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- For extra flavor, you can add a few tablespoons of ketchup or tomato paste to the broth mixture.
- Feel free to make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg