Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs – The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you love the rich, hearty flavors of Salisbury steak but want an easier, hands-off approach, these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the perfect solution. This dish transforms frozen meatballs into a savory, slow-cooked meal coated in a rich brown gravy that’s full of deep, comforting flavors. It’s easy to prep, requires minimal effort, and makes for a delicious weeknight dinner when served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

The best part about this recipe? The slow cooker does all the work! You simply dump everything into the crockpot, let it cook, and return to a perfectly thick, flavorful gravy with tender meatballs. Whether you’re looking for an easy family meal or a dish to impress guests, this Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Effortless Slow Cooker Meal – Just dump and cook, no extra steps required.
✔️ Minimal Ingredients – Uses frozen meatballs and pantry staples.
✔️ Rich, Homemade Gravy – No need to make a separate sauce, it thickens naturally.
✔️ Versatile & Customizable – Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day!

Ingredients for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

To make this delicious slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs dish, you’ll need:

Meatballs & Gravy Base:

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)
• 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth (see notes below)
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For Thickening the Gravy (Cornstarch Slurry):

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Optional Garnishes & Serving Suggestions:

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Spray the insert of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Meatballs

1. Dump the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. No need to thaw!

Step 3: Make the Gravy Base

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • Beef broth
   • Brown gravy mix
   • Onion soup mix
   • Ketchup
   • Worcestershire sauce
2. Stir everything until well combined.
3. Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Meatballs

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
2. Cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir occasionally, if possible, to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

1. When the meatballs are done cooking, mix together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to create a cornstarch slurry.
2. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker.
3. Let cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your liking.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for extra flavor.
3. Enjoy this comforting and easy slow cooker meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Use Reduced-Sodium Beef Broth – Full-sodium broth combined with the soup and gravy packets can be too salty.
• Don’t Thaw the Meatballs – They cook perfectly from frozen and help retain texture.
• Adjust the Gravy Thickness – If you prefer a thinner gravy, use 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water instead of 2.
• Enhance the Flavor – Add a splash of soy sauce or Dijon mustard for an extra umami boost.

What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many side dishes:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate comfort food combo!
• Buttered Egg Noodles – Perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
• Steamed Rice – A simple base that complements the flavors well.
• Roasted Vegetables – Balance out the meal with some roasted carrots or green beans.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the meatballs and gravy for up to 3 months in a sealed container.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using homemade meatballs, brown them first in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.

2. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gravy mix, onion soup mix, and cornstarch to keep this recipe gluten-free.

3. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes! Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours instead of LOW for 5-6 hours.

4. Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Try using turkey, chicken, or plant-based meatballs for a variation.

5. What’s the best way to thicken the gravy without cornstarch?

You can use flour (2 tbsp mixed with water) or instant mashed potatoes to thicken the gravy.

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This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, this dish is bound to be a family favorite.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy weekends, this recipe makes dinner stress-free while packing in all the flavors of classic Salisbury steak in an easy, meatball form.

Give this easy slow cooker recipe a try and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade Salisbury steak meatballs—without all the work!