Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat, then you’ll love this Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe. This dish has been a family favorite for years, providing warmth and satisfaction on busy weeknights or during cozy family gatherings. The combination of tender meatballs and rich gravy served over mashed potatoes or rice is like a warm hug in a bowl!
There’s something about the slow cooker that makes everything taste better, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Plus, whether it’s a chilly evening or just a craving for hearty comfort food, this recipe will surely hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
- Family-Friendly Appeal: These meatballs are loved by kids and adults alike—perfect for picky eaters!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner, ready to serve.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of beef broth, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce creates a rich gravy that you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this recipe not only tasty but also straightforward to prepare. So let’s gather what we need for our Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs!
- 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
Variations
This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Add veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or green beans during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients and color.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for those who like a little heat!
- Switch the base: Instead of serving over mashed potatoes, try it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different twist.
How to Make Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by placing the frozen meatballs in your slow cooker. This quick first step sets up your dish beautifully. Remember, using frozen meatballs saves time without sacrificing flavor!
Step 2: Make the Gravy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the reduced-sodium beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This step is crucial because blending these ingredients creates a rich gravy that will soak into those meatballs as they cook.
Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Now pour that delicious gravy mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Gently stir to coat all the meatballs evenly. This ensures every bite will be packed with flavor!
Step 4: Cook
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 4-6 hours. During this time, your kitchen will fill with wonderful aromas! The slow cooking process allows the meatballs to become tender and soak up all that savory goodness.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Add this slurry to your slow cooker and stir well. This will give your gravy that perfect thick consistency we all love.
Step 6: Serve
Once your gravy has thickened beautifully, it’s time to serve! Ladle those flavorful Salisbury steak meatballs over a generous helping of mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Pro Tips for Making Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Making this recipe is simple and rewarding, but a few pro tips can take your dish from good to unforgettable!
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Use High-Quality Frozen Meatballs: Choosing high-quality frozen meatballs ensures a better texture and flavor. Look for brands that use quality ingredients and avoid fillers.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste the gravy before serving. If you feel it needs more flavor, a dash of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the dish beautifully.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving not only adds a burst of color but also elevates the overall flavor profile of your meal.
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Cook on Low for Best Results: Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in tender meatballs and rich gravy. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for about 2-3 hours, but low is preferred.
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Double the Recipe: Since this dish is so popular, consider doubling it if you’re hosting family or friends. The leftovers make excellent lunches or quick dinners throughout the week!
How to Serve Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Serving these flavorful meatballs can be as fun as making them! Here are some delightful ways to present your dish that will impress everyone at the table.
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant green touch and a hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich gravy.
- Sliced Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions lend a mild onion flavor and an appealing crunch to each bite.
Side Dishes
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The classic pairing! Fluffy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up that luscious gravy and providing a comforting base.
- Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color and crunch, making them a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs.
- Egg Noodles: Soft egg noodles are another fantastic option for serving under these meatballs. They catch all the gravy in their folds, making every bite delightful.
- Garlic Bread: For those who love carbs, serve some warm garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping into any leftover gravy!
With these tips and serving ideas, your Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs will be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy every moment spent cooking and sharing this delicious meal with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage
This Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious creation fresh.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Make sure to cool the meatballs and gravy completely before storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal taste. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- You can also reheat in the microwave; just ensure it’s heated evenly.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!
Can I make this Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe without beef broth?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth or even mushroom broth for a different flavor profile while keeping it delicious.
How do I thicken the gravy in my Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe?
Using a cornstarch slurry is the best method! Mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then stir into your gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Yes! Feel free to use homemade meatballs. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker with the gravy mixture.
What can I serve with Salisbury steak meatballs?
These meatballs are fantastic served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You could also pair them with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How long does it take to cook these meatballs in a slow cooker?
Cooking time is typically between 4-6 hours on low heat, depending on your slow cooker. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re heated through and tender!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it up on a cozy Sunday dinner, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!
Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re seeking a warm and satisfying meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Tasty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe. This dish combines tender meatballs with a rich, savory gravy that envelops every bite in comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice, making it a go-to for anyone craving hearty comfort food. The slow cooker allows all the flavors to meld together, resulting in an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen while you relax.
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
- Place frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, and ketchup until smooth.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs and gently stir to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, combine cornstarch and cold water in another bowl; add to the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
