Savory Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

Sinking your teeth into a hearty slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs dish that melts in your mouth.

Rich, savory flavors dance across your palate with each tender bite.

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than these juicy meatballs swimming in a luscious gravy.

Classic diner-style meals have nothing on this homemade version that brings pure satisfaction to the dinner table.

Each meatball packs a punch of seasoned ground beef goodness that feels like a warm hug.

Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect companion for soaking up that incredible sauce.

I promise this recipe will become a new favorite in your meal rotation.

Great Pairings For Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Perfectly Pair Robust Red Wines: Complement the rich, savory Salisbury steak meatballs with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. These wines match the hearty meat flavors and cut through the creamy gravy with their bold tannins.
• Boost Comfort with Classic Sides: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add a fresh, crisp contrast to the tender meatballs and create a balanced plate.
• Enhance Flavor with Tangy Condiments: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top to brighten the dish. Crisp pickle spears on the side provide a zesty, acidic counterpoint to the rich, meaty main course.
• Elevate with Craft Beer Pairing: Choose a malty amber ale or a rich brown ale to complement the Worcestershire and beef flavors. These beer styles have enough depth to stand up to the robust meatballs and gravy.

Try These Twists On Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Mediterranean Meatball Magic: Swap ground beef with a mix of lamb and beef, add oregano, mint, and crumbled feta cheese. Replace traditional gravy with a tangy tzatziki sauce for a Greek-inspired version.
• Spicy Southwest Sensation: Incorporate diced green chiles, cumin, and chili powder into the meatball mixture. Create a zesty salsa-based gravy with chipotle peppers for a bold, southwestern kick.
• Asian-Inspired Fusion Feast: Mix ground pork with ginger, garlic, and green onions. Craft a rich soy-based gravy with sesame oil and a touch of honey. Serve over steamed jasmine rice for an exciting flavor profile.
• Smoky Barbecue Blast: Blend ground beef with smoky paprika and BBQ seasoning. Develop a tangy barbecue-style gravy using your favorite BBQ sauce and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch.

Questions About Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• What makes these Salisbury Steak Meatballs different from traditional Salisbury steak?

These meatballs are easier to eat and more fun-sized compared to the classic patty version. They’re packed with the same delicious flavor but in a more convenient bite-sized format that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

• Can I use a different type of ground meat for these meatballs?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can easily swap it with ground turkey or a lean ground chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might result in slightly less juicy meatballs.

• Is browning the meatballs really necessary?

Browning is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor and helps develop a nice caramelized exterior. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still end up with delicious meatballs. The slow cooker will ensure they remain tender and juicy.

• How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Simply replace the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This small swap will make the entire recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising the taste and texture.

Why Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Are So Comforting

• Create Comfort in Every Bite: These slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs deliver ultimate home-style comfort with a rich, savory gravy that wraps around tender, perfectly seasoned meat.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: The slow cooker method means you can toss ingredients together, walk away, and return to a deliciously prepared meal without constant monitoring or complex cooking techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Easily adaptable to different serving styles, these meatballs work wonderfully over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, making them perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
• Stress-Free Weeknight Winner: With simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking approach, this recipe saves time and reduces kitchen stress while delivering restaurant-quality results that will impress everyone at the table.

What Goes Into Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Ground Beef: The star of the meatballs, providing rich flavor and hearty texture. Choose lean ground beef for a balanced dish.

• Breadcrumbs, Egg, Milk: Work together to hold the meatballs together and create a tender texture. Opt for fresh breadcrumbs for better binding.

• Onion, Garlic: Add depth and traditional savory notes to the meatballs. Fresh ingredients provide the most robust flavor.

• Worcestershire Sauce, Salt, Pepper: Boost the overall savoriness and bring out the meat's natural taste. Use freshly ground black pepper for maximum impact.

• Beef Broth, Ketchup, Dijon Mustard: Create a tangy and rich sauce for the meatballs. Low-sodium broth allows better seasoning control.

• Cornstarch: Helps to create a smooth, glossy gravy consistency. Mix with a small amount of cold water before adding to prevent lumps.

• Onion, Mushrooms: Add extra layers of flavor and moisture to the dish. Fresh mushrooms provide the best texture and taste.

• Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright, fresh finish to the rich dish. Optional but recommended for color and subtle herbal note.

How To Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Easily

Step 1: Create Flavor-Packed Meatballs

• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Milk
• Finely chopped onion
• Minced garlic
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt
• Black pepper

Dive in with your hands and mix everything until beautifully combined. Roll the mixture into perfect little meatball spheres about the size of a golf ball.

Step 2: Unlock Extra Deliciousness

Heat a skillet with a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Gently place meatballs into the sizzling pan. Roll them around until all sides develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This step is totally optional but adds an incredible depth of flavor.

Step 3: Craft Magical Gravy

• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Ketchup
• Dijon mustard

Blend until smooth and inviting.

Step 4: Layer Slow Cooker Magic

Spread sliced onions and mushrooms across the bottom of your slow cooker. Nestle the meatballs on top like precious little gems. Pour the gravy mixture over everything, ensuring each meatball gets a loving coating.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen. On low setting, cook for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting works for 3-4 hours.

Step 6: Transform Gravy

About 30 minutes before serving, create a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Stir it into the slow cooker and watch the gravy transform into a luxurious, velvety consistency. Taste and sprinkle in extra salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Celebrate

Plate your meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes, twirly egg noodles, or fluffy rice. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Prepare for a meal that’ll make everyone at the table cheer!

Pro Tips For Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Boost Meat Texture: Mix ingredients gently to prevent tough meatballs, using light hands when combining ground beef with other components.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Brown meatballs before slow cooking to develop rich caramelized exterior and intensify overall taste profile.
• Prevent Gravy Clumping: Whisk cornstarch slurry thoroughly and add slowly to ensure smooth, lump-free sauce consistency.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Substitute ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based alternatives for healthier or vegetarian versions.
• Maximize Meal Prep: Prepare meatballs ahead and freeze uncooked, allowing convenient weeknight dinner option with minimal preparation time.

How To Store And Reheat Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

• Refrigerate: Store leftover Salisbury steak meatballs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Freeze: Transfer cooled meatballs and gravy to freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring no air pockets to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheat Stovetop: Warm meatballs in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to prevent drying. Stir gently and cover to help retain moisture and heat evenly.
• Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat and maintain sauce consistency.

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

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4.5 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 6-8 hours
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs bring comfort and flavor straight from grandma’s kitchen. Rich mushroom gravy and tender beef meatballs promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 2 pounds (907 grams) ground beef

Binding and Moisture Ingredients:

• ½ cup (60 grams) breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) milk

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 2 small onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Gravy Ingredients:

• 2 cups (473 milliliters) beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 cup (85 grams) mushrooms, sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Craft a robust mixture of ground beef, blending breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely diced onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into a cohesive texture. Gently shape the mixture into uniform, bite-sized spherical morsels.
2. Elevate the meatballs’ flavor profile by searing them in a hot skillet with a light drizzle of oil. Rotate the meatballs carefully to achieve a golden-brown exterior, which enhances their depth of taste and structural integrity.
3. Orchestrate a luxurious gravy by whisking together robust beef broth, tangy Worcestershire sauce, rich ketchup, and zesty Dijon mustard into a harmonious liquid base.
4. Transform your slow cooker into a culinary vessel by layering sliced onions and earthy mushrooms across the bottom. Nestle the prepared meatballs atop this aromatic foundation, then generously cascade the meticulously crafted gravy over the entire ensemble.
5. Allow the slow cooker to work its magic, enveloping the meatballs in low, consistent heat for 6-8 hours on a gentle setting, or 3-4 hours on an intensified temperature.
6. As the finale approaches, integrate a cornstarch slurry to metamorphose the cooking liquid into a velvety,ClinicAL gravy. Let the mixture simmer and thicken, periodically adjusting seasoning with strategic pinches of salt and pepper.
7. Present the succulent meatballs draped in their rich gravy, cascading over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, tender egg noodles, or fluffy rice. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

Notes

• Enhance meatball texture by using a combination of ground beef and ground pork for richer flavor and more tender bite.
• Prevent dry meatballs by avoiding overmixing the meat mixture, which can make them tough and dense.
• Consider gluten-free adaptation by substituting breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
• Boost gravy depth by adding a splash of red wine or beef demi-glace during the cooking process for more complex flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg