Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Quick and easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the perfect solution for a hassle-free dinner that delivers on flavor. Using frozen meatballs, this dish comes together seamlessly in your slow cooker. The rich brown gravy is made from simple seasoning packets and beef broth, making it a delightful option for family dinners or gatherings. Pair it with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few ingredients, this recipe requires minimal effort and time.
- Flavorful Sauce: The homemade gravy is rich and savory, elevating the simple meatballs to something special.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these meatballs over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for different meal experiences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and serve!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be drawn to the comforting flavors of this classic dish.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs, you’ll need some essential tools that will streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe, allowing you to cook without constant supervision while developing deep flavors.
- Mixing bowl: A necessary tool for combining ingredients easily before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Whisk: Helps ensure that your gravy mix and broth are fully blended for a smooth sauce.
- Fork: Useful for mixing cornstarch with water to create a slurry that thickens your gravy perfectly.

Ingredients
For this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 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
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by spraying the insert of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Add Frozen Meatballs
Dump the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. No need to thaw; they’ll cook perfectly from frozen.
Step 3: Mix the Gravy Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. The beef broth,
2. Brown gravy mix,
3. Onion soup mix,
4. Ketchup,
5. Worcestershire sauce.
Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker and stir gently to combine everything well.
Step 4: Cook on Low Heat
Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to LOW heat. Let it cook for 5-6 hours, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Once cooking is complete, mix together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl using a fork until smooth. Stir this cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes or until your gravy has thickened nicely.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Salisbury steak meatballs over egg noodles or mashed potatoes, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a perfect base for the rich gravy, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
With Egg Noodles
- Serve the meatballs on a bed of egg noodles for a comforting and hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy.
On a Sub Roll
- Transform the meatballs into a tasty sandwich by placing them in a toasted sub roll and topping with extra gravy.
Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables
- Add color and nutrition by serving alongside steamed green beans or broccoli, balancing the richness of the dish.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your plate with chopped parsley or chives for an added burst of freshness and flavor.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is easy, but these tips can help you achieve perfection every time.
- Use Quality Meatballs: Opt for high-quality frozen meatballs for better flavor and texture. Look for brands that use natural ingredients.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving. If you prefer more seasoning, add salt or pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Thicken the Gravy: For a thicker gravy, let it cook longer after adding the cornstarch slurry until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add garlic powder or onion powder to customize the flavor profile according to your taste.
- Keep it Warm: If serving later, set your slow cooker on the warm setting to keep everything heated without overcooking.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Complement your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is great for mopping up extra gravy from your plate.
- Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, it’s creamy and pairs well with rich sauces.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and a slightly bitter contrast to the savory meatballs.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can provide a crunchy texture that balances the richness of the main dish.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf is another excellent option that absorbs gravy beautifully while adding subtle flavors.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob makes for a fun and summery side, adding sweetness to each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs even more delightful. Here are some tips:
-
Ignoring the Cooking Time: Make sure to cook on LOW for 5-6 hours. Cooking it too quickly can result in tough meatballs.
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Not Using Nonstick Spray: Failing to spray the slow cooker may cause the meatballs to stick. Always use nonstick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
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Skipping the Thickening Step: Don’t forget to add the cornstarch slurry at the end. This step is crucial for achieving a rich, thick gravy.
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Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Taste before serving! Adjust seasoning if necessary, especially with low-sodium broth, to enhance flavor.
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Overloading with Ingredients: Stick to the suggested ingredients and quantities. Adding too much could alter the texture and flavor of the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
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Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
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Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
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Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs that may help you prepare this dish:
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute with ground turkey or beef-based meatballs according to your preference.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
These meatballs go great over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a complete meal.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gravy mix and ensure your broth is also gluten-free for a safe option.
Can I add vegetables?
Sure! Adding mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers during cooking can enhance flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
The Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is not only simple but also versatile. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. Whip it up today for a comforting dinner that everyone will enjoy!
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delicious and hassle-free dinner option that brings comforting flavors to your table. With minimal prep required, this recipe utilizes frozen meatballs simmered in a rich homemade gravy made from beef broth and simple seasoning packets. The result is a delightful dish that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings. Simply set your slow cooker and let the magic happen while you enjoy your day!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: About 30 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30–35 meatballs)
- 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- 1. Spray the insert of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- 2. Add frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker.
- 3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, and ketchup. Pour over the meatballs and stir gently.
- 4. Cover and cook on LOW heat for 5-6 hours.
- 5. To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stir into the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- 6. Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball (approximately 45g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
