Dinner Lunch

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe: A Comforting Classic Made Easy

Few dishes evoke the warmth of home-cooked comfort food quite like Salisbury steak a beloved American classic often served with rich gravy and creamy mashed potatoes. This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe takes that nostalgic flavor and transforms it into tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a savory onion-mushroom gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners, this dish delivers all the hearty satisfaction of traditional Salisbury steak with the convenience of a slow cooker.

Imagine sinking your fork into a succulent, well-seasoned meatball, bathed in a deeply flavorful gravy with caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms. The slow cooking process allows the meatballs to become incredibly tender while the gravy thickens into a velvety sauce that clings to every bite. The aroma alone a mix of beefy richness, sweet onions, and umami-packed Worcestershire sauce will have your family gathering around the kitchen long before dinner is ready.

What Makes Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Special?

This recipe stands out for its effortless preparation and deep, satisfying flavors—ideal for anyone craving comfort food without the fuss.

  • Signature Ingredients: A blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates perfectly textured meatballs, while beef broth, mushrooms, and Worcestershire sauce build a rich, umami-packed gravy.
  • Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
  • Nostalgic Yet Upgraded: Combines the classic Salisbury steak taste with the fun, bite-sized appeal of meatballs.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead and reheating tastes even better the next day!

Whether you serve it over buttery mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or creamy polenta, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Key Ingredients in Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Ground Beef (80/20 blend)

  • Provides rich flavor and juiciness; the slight fat content keeps meatballs tender.

Breadcrumbs & Egg

  • Bind the meatballs together while adding lightness and structure.

Worcestershire Sauce

  • Adds a tangy, umami depth to both the meatballs and gravy.

Beef Broth

  • Forms the base of the gravy, enhancing the meaty flavor.

Fresh Mushrooms & Onions

  • Contribute earthy sweetness and texture to the gravy.

Cornstarch (or Flour)

  • Thickens the gravy into a luscious, velvety consistency.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe: A Comforting Classic Made Easy
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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe: A Comforting Classic Made Easy

Recipe by Jamie Erin
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

5

hours 
Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • For the Gravy:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)

  • Salt & pepper to taste

Directions for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

  • Prepare the Meatball Mixture
    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently (don’t overwork) and shape into 1.5-inch meatballs.
  • Sear the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended)
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs for 2 minutes per side (they’ll finish cooking in the slow cooker). Transfer to the slow cooker.
  • Sauté Onions & Mushrooms
    In the same skillet, cook onions and mushrooms until softened (5 minutes). Pour over meatballs in the slow cooker.
  •  Make the Gravy
    Whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch slurry. Pour over meatballs and veggies.
  • Slow Cook to Perfection
    Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and gravy is thickened.
  • Adjust & Serve
    Stir gravy, season with extra salt/pepper if needed, and serve hot.

What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs

  • Classic Pairing: Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles soak up the gravy beautifully.
  • Lighter Option: Steamed green beans or roasted carrots balance the richness.
  • For a Hearty Meal: Add a side of buttery dinner rolls for dipping.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Serves 4)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fats: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 850mg

How to Store & Reheat

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze meatballs and gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is the ultimate comfort food hack—delivering all the nostalgic flavors of the classic dish with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or potlucks, it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Feel free to swap beef for ground turkey or add a splash of red wine to the gravy for extra depth. Once you try it, this dish might just become your new favorite cozy meal!

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