Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food with convenience. This dish uses frozen meatballs, making it easy to prepare a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll enjoy tender meatballs covered in a rich, savory gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or any side you like. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, letting you relax while it cooks. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Using frozen meatballs saves time and effort while providing a hearty meal. The combination of beef broth, onion soup mix, and other ingredients creates a delicious gravy that elevates the simple meatballs to a satisfying dish. Plus, it’s an excellent recipe for busy days when you need a warm dinner ready by the time you get home. Give it a try for a simple and comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to prepare a meal with minimal effort. Using frozen meatballs saves time, making it quick to throw everything in the slow cooker. The rich, flavorful gravy makes each bite a delight. Plus, you can serve the meatballs in many ways, adding versatility to your dinner. It’s a meal that’s both satisfying and easy, perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Ingredients
1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)
2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth (see notes)
1 packet brown gravy mix
1 packet onion soup mix
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch (see notes)
2 tablespoons cold water
Directions
Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Pour the mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and tender.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
Once the sauce has thickened, serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Serve these delicious meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. They also work well with buttered noodles or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh taste.
How to Store Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm them in a saucepan over low heat until hot. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and gravy for up to three months.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Use reduced-sodium beef broth to control the salt level in the dish. Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust the seasoning if needed. For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the mixture before cooking.
Variations
For a slightly different taste, try adding garlic powder or vary the gravy flavor by using mushroom or pepper gravy mix. You can also substitute turkey meatballs for a lighter option.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Yes, homemade meatballs work great too! Just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gravy mix and onion soup mix, and check that your beef broth is gluten-free.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook on high for about 3-4 hours, but low heat is recommended for the best flavor and tenderness.
What can I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, pasta, or your favorite vegetables.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Carrots, peas, or green beans can add nutrition and flavor to the dish. Just add them in with the meatballs before cooking.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
A comforting dish of tender meatballs in a savory gravy, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
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
Instructions
- Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and tender.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- Once the sauce has thickened, serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Notes
Use reduced-sodium beef broth to control salt levels. For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
