If you’ve been searching for a comfort food dish that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible, look no further than these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Perfect for a cozy evening with family or a weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and simple, this recipe combines the classic flavors of Salisbury steak with the convenience of meatballs. Tender, juicy meatballs are smothered in a rich mushroom gravy that’s ideal for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Inspired by the nostalgic flavors of Salisbury steak, this version gives a fresh twist while maintaining all the comforting, hearty appeal. The slow cooker method makes this dish not only flavorful but incredibly convenient, letting you set it and forget it while the magic happens.

Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs have it all: savory flavor, tender texture, and ultimate ease. The slow cooker ensures that every bite is infused with the deep, savory flavors of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Plus, the meatballs cook to perfection, staying juicy and tender after hours of slow cooking. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

Minimal Prep Time: With only 15 minutes of prep, you can get the meatballs ready and let the slow cooker do the rest.
Rich, Flavorful Gravy: The mushroom gravy made with beef broth and onion soup mix is the perfect complement to the meatballs, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering, this recipe can easily feed 4 people and will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have these simple yet delicious ingredients ready. The beauty of this recipe lies in the pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together in a comforting dish you’ll want to make again and again.

1 pound ground beef: The base of your meatballs, providing rich flavor and a tender texture.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: For binding the meatballs together and adding a little extra texture.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a bit of salty, cheesy depth to the meatballs.
1/4 cup chopped parsley: For a fresh, green pop and added flavor.
1 egg: Helps bind the ingredients and provides structure to the meatballs.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A classic seasoning to elevate the dish’s overall flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds an aromatic, savory note that complements the beef.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the meatballs, giving them a delicious crispy exterior.
1 cup beef broth: The key to making that mouthwatering mushroom gravy.
1 cup sliced mushrooms: They absorb the rich gravy and add earthy depth to the sauce.
1 packet onion soup mix: Adds a boost of savory flavor and helps season the gravy.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A splash of tangy goodness that enhances the beefy flavor.
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): For thickening the gravy if you prefer a heartier sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is as simple as mixing, browning, and slow cooking. The steps are straightforward, making this recipe a no-fuss way to enjoy a classic comfort dish. Let’s dive into the easy process!

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until well combined. The mixture should be moist and sticky, but not too wet.

Once the mixture is thoroughly mixed, take about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture and roll it into a meatball. Repeat until all the meatballs are formed, aiming for about 1-inch diameter meatballs.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Brown them on all sides, which should take around 5-7 minutes. The goal is to get a nice sear on the outside while the inside remains raw. After browning, transfer the meatballs to your slow cooker.

Step 3: Prepare the Mushroom Gravy

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes, until they’re tender and lightly browned. This step helps develop the deep, earthy flavors of the mushrooms, adding a rich layer to the gravy.

Next, pour in the beef broth, followed by the onion soup mix and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine and allow the mixture to come to a simmer, about 2 minutes. The broth should thicken slightly from the onion soup mix, but don’t worry if it looks thin—this will change as the slow cooker works its magic.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Meatballs

Pour the mushroom gravy mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker with the lid, set it to low, and cook for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours instead. The meatballs should be fully cooked through, tender, and infused with all the savory gravy flavors.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can use cornstarch to achieve the desired consistency. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stirring it in well. This will help thicken the gravy to a rich, luxurious consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cooking time is up, your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are ready to serve! Spoon the tender meatballs and flavorful gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a hearty meal. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak Meatballs

To make sure your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t skip browning the meatballs: Although it adds a step, browning the meatballs first gives them a delicious, caramelized crust that adds flavor to the finished dish.
Adjust the seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to suit your personal preferences.
Use lean ground beef: While you can use any type of ground beef, lean ground beef (around 80% lean) is ideal because it ensures a tender, juicy meatball without excess fat.
Make ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the meatballs and gravy the night before and let the slow cooker do the work the next day. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just store it in an airtight container!

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is how incredibly easy it is to prepare. Busy nights won’t stand in the way of a delicious home-cooked meal because this recipe requires minimal prep work. You don’t need to stand over the stove for hours; simply brown the meatballs, make the gravy, and let your slow cooker do the rest. The result is a mouthwatering dish that will impress even the pickiest eaters in your household.

The Best Sides to Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs

These savory meatballs and rich mushroom gravy pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

Mashed Potatoes: The classic choice! Creamy mashed potatoes are ideal for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
Egg Noodles: Soft, pillowy egg noodles are the perfect base for this dish, giving each bite a bit of satisfying texture.
Steamed Vegetables: For a lighter, healthier side, serve these meatballs alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or peas.
Garlic Bread: If you’re craving something extra indulgent, warm garlic bread is a great way to scoop up the gravy.

Conclusion: A Comfort Food Classic

There’s no denying that Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. Hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, this dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. The slow cooker makes it simple and stress-free, allowing you to enjoy tender meatballs in a rich mushroom gravy with minimal effort. So, next time you’re looking for an easy, delicious meal that everyone will love, give this recipe a try—and get ready to dig into a comforting plate of goodness.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family—because good food is meant to be shared! Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Author: lina
Total Time: 6-8 hours
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

If you’ve been searching for a comfort food dish that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible, look no further than these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs. Perfect for a cozy evening with family or a weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and simple, this recipe combines the classic flavors of Salisbury steak with the convenience of meatballs. Tender, juicy meatballs are smothered in a rich mushroom gravy that’s ideal for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 packet onion soup mix
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender. Add the beef broth, onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Pour the mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serve the Salisbury steak meatballs over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip browning the meatballs for added flavor.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
Use lean ground beef for the best texture.
This recipe is great for meal prepping or freezing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)