Name: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 h 10 min
Total time: 5 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bag (26 oz) (about 30–35 frozen meatballs); 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth; 1 packet brown gravy mix; 1 packet onion soup mix; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons cold water; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, you’re in for a treat with these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Imagine tender meatballs simmering slowly in a rich, savory onion gravy, infused with just the right balance of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, all melded together in your slow cooker for effortless cooking. This dish takes the classic Salisbury steak flavors and turns them into perfectly portioned, melt-in-your-mouth meatballs that are ideal for a family dinner or a cozy solo meal. Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-to dinners for any night of the week!

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Believe it or not, crafting the perfect batch of Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs starts with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, transforming frozen meatballs into a luscious, slow-simmered masterpiece. These pantry staples bring out bold, savory flavors and a comforting, velvety texture that’s impossible to resist.

Frozen meatballs (about 30–35, 26 oz): Your protein base, perfectly portioned for this recipe and ready to soak up all the delicious gravy.
Reduced-sodium beef broth (2 cups): Adds depth and richness, keeping the sauce flavorful without overpowering the meatballs.
Brown gravy mix (1 packet): The secret to a thick, silky gravy that clings lovingly to every meatball.
Onion soup mix (1 packet): Brings a punch of savory onion goodness that elevates the entire dish.
Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Offers a subtle sweetness and tang that rounds out the sauce perfectly.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a complex, umami depth that makes the gravy irresistibly savory.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Used to thicken the gravy for a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.
Cold water (2 tablespoons): Mixed with cornstarch to make a slurry for thickening without lumps.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a lovely pop of color and flavor at the end.

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker

Start by giving your slow cooker insert a light spray of nonstick cooking spray. This step is quick but important—it prevents the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 2: Add the Meatballs

Simply dump the frozen meatballs right into the slow cooker. No thawing necessary! This convenience is part of what makes this recipe so wonderfully easy.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This savory sauce is the heart of the dish, infusing the meatballs with robust, tangy flavors while cooking slowly.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Pour the delicious sauce over your meatballs, then gently stir to make sure they’re all coated nicely. Put the lid on and let everything cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. This slow simmering is where the magic happens—each meatball becomes tender and soaking with flavor.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

About ten minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with cold water to make a smooth slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes until the gravy thickens to that perfect, clingy consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are now ready! Serve them steaming hot over fluffy mashed potatoes or a bed of egg noodles. Don’t forget to sprinkle on some freshly chopped parsley for a bright and fresh finishing touch.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley sprinkled on top just before serving transforms this dish visually and adds a subtle grassy note that lifts the rich gravy. If you’d like to get a bit fancy, a spoonful of sour cream or a few caramelized onions can also bring an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Side Dishes

Nothing complements Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs better than a creamy base that can catch every drop of that luscious gravy. Mashed potatoes are a classic, but silky egg noodles work beautifully too. For a bit of freshness and crunch, steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp garden salad provide the perfect contrast to the hearty meatballs.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to switch things up? Try serving these meatballs as slider sandwiches by piling them on fluffy rolls and topping with extra gravy or melted cheese. They also make a fantastic filling for a savory pot pie or stuffed bell peppers when paired with some cooked rice or veggies. The adaptability of Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs means you can get as creative as your taste buds desire.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a blessing for busy days. Let them cool completely, then transfer into airtight containers and keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making tasty lunches or next-day dinners.

Freezing

These meatballs freeze beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep. Once cooled, freeze them in portions inside freezer-safe containers or bags for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for easy reheating the next day.

Reheating

Reheat your meatballs gently to preserve their tender texture. Microwave with a splash of beef broth to keep the gravy saucy, or warm them slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Either way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors as fresh.

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs add a personal touch and you can tailor seasoning just how you like. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding to the slow cooker because frozen meatballs are already precooked.

Is there a way to make the gravy gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free brown gravy mix and onion soup mix, and substitute cornstarch for any flour-thickening agent. This way, you can enjoy all the great flavor without gluten worries.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the increased volume, or split the recipe into two slow cookers. The cooking time stays about the same.

What’s the best temperature setting for cooking?

Cooking on LOW for 5 to 6 hours is ideal because it allows the meatballs to absorb all the gravy flavors and become tender without drying out.

Can these meatballs be frozen after cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the fully cooked Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Just cool them completely, freeze in portioned containers, and thaw before reheating to enjoy stress-free meals later on.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason why Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a beloved comfort food classic revisited for modern kitchens. They’re fuss-free, soulful, and downright delicious, bringing that perfect balance of savory gravy and tender meatballs to your table with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try sometime soon — your taste buds and busy schedule will thank you for it!

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 18 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs combine tender frozen meatballs with a rich, savory onion gravy, cooked low and slow for a comforting and easy weeknight meal. Perfectly paired with creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles, this hassle-free slow cooker dish brings classic comfort food flavors to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 bag (26 oz) (about 30–35 frozen meatballs)
2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
1 packet brown gravy mix
1 packet onion soup mix
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Slow Cooker: Spray the insert of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Add the Meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker insert in a single layer.
Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and fully combined.
Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and gently stir to coat all the meatballs evenly with the gravy. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours until meatballs are heated through and flavors meld.
Thicken the Gravy: Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the gravy thickens to your liking.
Serve: Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs hot over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

For best results, use reduced-sodium beef broth to control saltiness.
You can substitute homemade gravy and onion soup mixes if preferred.
Meatballs can be cooked from frozen—no need to thaw.
Leftovers store well in airtight containers in the refrigerator up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if gravy thickens too much.
Pair with steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp green salad to balance the hearty meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American