If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs soaking in a rich, savory brown gravy infused with onion soup mix and a hint of tangy ketchup, all slowly simmered to perfection. This dish offers the classic flavors of Salisbury steak in an easy, fuss-free meatball form that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Get ready to savor every bite of this soul-soothing, melt-in-your-mouth delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of flavors each ingredient brings to the table. Every component has a crucial role, from the frozen meatballs that save time to the beef broth and seasoning mixes that develop a wonderfully robust sauce. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe journey:
- Frozen meatballs (26 oz / 737 g): Using frozen meatballs means no prep time while ensuring tender, juicy bites.
- Beef broth (2 cups / 480 ml): Adds rich depth and a savory base for the gravy to come alive.
- Brown gravy mix (1 packet): The heart of the luscious sauce that ties everything together.
- Onion soup mix (1 packet): Brings a savory sharpness and aromatic zest that complements the beef flavor perfectly.
- Ketchup (2 tablespoons / 30 ml): Adds a subtle tang and sweetness, balancing the savory elements beautifully.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon / 15 ml): Provides umami richness and a gentle kick that elevates the entire dish.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons / 16 g): Essential for thickening the gravy to a luscious, velvety consistency.
- Cold water (2 tablespoons / 30 ml): Used to create the cornstarch slurry for that perfect gravy texture.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring an easy cleanup and intact meatballs.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray. This little step is a game-changer for cleanup later on—plus it helps keep your meatballs looking perfect and prevents them from sticking to the bottom or sides as they slow-cook away deliciously.
Step 2: Add the Meatballs
Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker; no thawing needed. Arrange them in a single layer if possible so they cook evenly. This hands-off step saves a ton of time without sacrificing any of the tenderness or flavor you’re after.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Gravy Mix
In a medium bowl, combine the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until all the powders dissolve completely and you have a smooth, rich liquid. This sauce base will soak into the meatballs and infuse them with incredible flavor as they cook low and slow.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs evenly. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it on LOW heat. Allow the meatballs to cook for 5 to 6 hours. If you like, gently stir once halfway through to make sure all the meatballs get coated in that heavenly sauce.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Once cooking is complete, it’s time to thicken the sauce. Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a smooth slurry. Then stir it into the slow cooker gradually. This will instantly transform the gravy into a gorgeous, silky finishing touch that clings perfectly to each meatball.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is ready to serve! Scoop the meatballs and gravy generously over fluffy egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite side. The rich, flavorful sauce paired with tender meatballs makes a meal that feels indulgent yet effortlessly simple.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a burst of vibrant color but also a subtle freshness that brightens the rich dish. You could also try crispy fried onions on top for a little crunch contrast—both simple touches that elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
These meatballs shine next to classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles which soak up the luscious gravy perfectly. Roasted vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, provide a lovely balance of sweetness and crunch alongside the hearty meatballs.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to switch things up, try serving the meatballs on toasted sandwich buns for a comforting Salisbury steak meatball sub. Or layer them over a bed of garlic rice for an unexpected but delicious twist. The rich gravy also makes an excellent dipping sauce for crusty bread if you’re going for a casual meal vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover meatballs and gravy into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal or quick lunch option.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the meatballs gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating helps maintain the sauce’s luscious consistency and prevents the meatballs from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute your favorite homemade meatballs for the frozen ones. Just be sure they’re fully cooked before placing them in the slow cooker with the gravy mixture.
Is it necessary to use both the brown gravy mix and onion soup mix?
Using both packs creates that signature Salisbury steak flavor with a perfect balance of savory richness and aromatic onion notes. You can experiment, but the combination really elevates the dish.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Cook the frozen meatballs with the gravy mixture on the manual setting for about 12-15 minutes, then use the sauté mode to thicken the gravy with the cornstarch slurry.
What can I substitute for cornstarch to thicken the gravy?
If you don’t have cornstarch, flour works well too. Use about twice as much flour (4 tablespoons) mixed with cold water to form a slurry.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the meatballs?
Definitely! Adding sliced mushrooms, diced onions, or bell peppers can increase the dish’s nutrition and flavor. Just keep in mind the cooking time so the veggies don’t get overcooked.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about coming home to a slow cooker meal bubbling with rich, savory goodness like this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe. Its effortless preparation paired with comforting flavor makes it a true weeknight winner. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this crowd-pleaser as much as I do—get ready for some serious cozy dinner magic!
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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe offers a comforting and easy meal with tender meatballs cooked in a rich, savory brown gravy. Perfectly combined with beef broth, brown gravy mix, and onion soup mix, these meatballs are effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker, making them an ideal dish for busy days. Serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 bag (26 oz / 737 g) frozen meatballs, do not thaw
Gravy Sauce
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth, reduced-sodium recommended
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) ketchup
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
Thickening Slurry
- 2 tablespoons (16 g) cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) cold water
Instructions
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Spray the insert of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and to allow for easier cleanup.
- Add Meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker without thawing. Distribute them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Make Gravy Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Cook Meatballs: Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW heat for 5 to 6 hours. Optionally, stir gently halfway through the cooking time to ensure even heat distribution.
- Thicken Gravy: Once cooking is complete, prepare a slurry by mixing cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the Salisbury steak meatballs and generous amounts of gravy over cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for added color and freshness.
Notes
- Do not thaw the frozen meatballs before cooking to maintain their texture.
- You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a slightly lighter flavor.
- For thicker gravy, increase the cornstarch slurry slightly but add gradually to avoid over-thickening.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
