Name: Ultimate Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: A Comfort Food Masterpiece
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; 1/2 cup diced onions; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional); 1 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water (for thickening gravy)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Ultimate Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: A Comfort Food Masterpiece 🍝🥩✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of meatballs with the rich, savory gravy of classic Salisbury steak, then this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak recipe is perfect for you. Using your slow cooker, you can effortlessly create a comforting, delicious meal that will satisfy the whole family. The secret lies in tender meatballs simmered in a savory mushroom gravy, making this an easy dinner idea that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a weekend treat, this recipe will become your go-to for a deliciously satisfying meal. Discover the best way to craft this classic dish and enjoy the delicious results!

2. Ingredients for a Classic Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup diced onions
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
1 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water (for thickening gravy)

For additional flavor and texture, consider visiting our recipe collection for more dinner ideas, or check out our casserole recipes for inspiration.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Prepare the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using a spoon or your hands until well blended. Form into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until browned and cooked through. Alternatively, you can skip pre-baking and let the slow cooker cook the raw meatballs directly, but baking seals the flavors better.

Make the Gravy Mixture

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the gravy. In a slow cooker, combine beef broth, diced onions, sliced mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce if using. Stir well. This flavorful mixture will infuse the meatballs with rich taste as they cook.

Cook the Meatballs in the Slow Cooker

Add the baked or raw meatballs to the slow cooker with the mushroom gravy mixture. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process ensures the meatballs remain tender and absorb all the delicious flavors from the gravy.

Thicken the Gravy

Once the cooking time is complete, transfer the meatballs and gravy to a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and stir in the dissolved cornstarch. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens to a desirable consistency. Pour the thickened gravy over the meatballs before serving.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Leftover meatballs and gravy can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water to revive the gravy’s texture.

5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even a side of roasted vegetables. You can also serve it over bed of buttered egg noodles or rice for a filling and satisfying experience. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for added freshness and color.

6. FAQs about Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this classic meatball recipe. Keep in mind that different meats may affect cooking time and flavor, so adjust accordingly.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Preparation takes around 20-30 minutes, including forming the meatballs, while the slow cooker does most of the work with 6-8 hours of cooking time. This makes it an ideal easy Salisbury steak recipe for busy days.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the bread crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — simplifies chopping onions and garlic, saving you time in prep.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — ensures even cooking for large batches of meatballs and gravy.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — perfect for baking meatballs or preparing side dishes.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — although primarily for beverages, its quick chill feature can be great for refreshing drinks during your meal prep.

Having the right kitchen tools can make the cooking process much more enjoyable and efficient. Check out the recommended tools to elevate your cooking experience!

8. Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak meatball recipe is an easy, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The slow cooking process ensures tender, flavorful meatballs smothered in rich mushroom gravy. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own home. For more delicious dinner ideas and mouthwatering meal inspirations, visit our website and explore our extensive collection of recipes. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this hearty, satisfying dish!

9. Final Thoughts and Tips

For an even tastier experience, consider adding a splash of red wine to the gravy or topping the meatballs with melted cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. Remember, the key to perfect Salisbury steak is patience—let the slow cooker do its magic! Serve with your favorite side and enjoy a comforting homemade meal that everyone will love.

Ultimate Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs: A Comfort Food Masterpiece