A comforting dish that combines juicy meatballs with rich, savory gravy, Salisbury Steak Meatballs (slow cooker) fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. smothered chicken with rice Picture tender beef meatballs simmering in a luscious sauce that’s perfect for soaking into mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. creamy chicken tortellini. For more inspiration, check out this Savory Beef Stroganoff recipe.
Remember those cozy family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting the first bite? That’s exactly what these Salisbury Steak Meatballs bring to mind. hearty vegetable beef soup They’re not just a meal; they’re a memory waiting to happen, especially on chilly evenings or when you need a hearty pick-me-up. lentil tortilla soup.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Salisbury Steak Meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, letting you focus on enjoying dinner with loved ones
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, making each bite a warm hug
- Visually appealing with their glossy gravy coat, they look as delectable as they taste
- Perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to holiday gatherings—these versatile meatballs steal the show
The first time I made these meatballs, my kids practically devoured them in minutes—no leftovers in sight!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture; it’s perfect for juicy meatballs. For more inspiration, check out this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole recipe.
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Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs together without overpowering their flavor.
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Eggs: One large egg helps hold everything together while keeping the meatballs tender.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté it slightly for an even better flavor.
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Garlic Powder: This pantry staple enhances savory notes without the hassle of peeling fresh garlic.
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Worcestershire Sauce: A dash of this sauce brings umami richness that elevates your meatball game.
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Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping it moist and flavorful during cooking.
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Vegetable Oil: A small amount is needed for browning the meatballs before slow cooking, adding extra flavor.
For the Sauce:
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Ketchup: Sweet and tangy ketchup forms a base for your savory gravy; it’s a classic combo!
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Mustard: A bit of mustard adds zing—choose yellow or Dijon based on your taste preference.
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Brown Sugar: Sweetens and balances out acidity; brown sugar also gives depth to your sauce’s flavor.
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Mushrooms (optional): Sliced mushrooms can be added if you’re feeling fancy; they give an earthy touch to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
**Prep Your Meat Mixture**: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking.
**Shape Your Meatballs**: Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray as you work your way through the mixture.
**Brown the Meatballs**: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in batches until browned on all sides—about 4-5 minutes. They don’t need to be cooked through at this stage.
**Prepare the Sauce**: In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and beef broth until smooth. This mixture will turn into your delectable gravy during cooking.
**Combine Everything in Slow Cooker**: Transfer browned meatballs into the slow cooker. Pour sauce over them evenly so they’re well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until fully cooked.
**Serve with Style**: Once done cooking, serve these Salisbury Steak Meatballs hot over mashed potatoes or rice. Drizzle some extra sauce over them and watch everyone dig in happily!
Now you’ve got yourself some scrumptious Salisbury Steak Meatballs (slow cooker) that are sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
You Must Know
- Salisbury steak meatballs are not just delicious; they bring nostalgia and comfort
- The rich gravy enveloping the tender meatballs creates a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist
- Serve them with mashed potatoes for a classic experience!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve mouthwatering Salisbury steak meatballs, start by mixing your ingredients thoroughly. Form the meatballs and sear them in your slow cooker before adding the gravy. This ensures maximum flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Salisbury steak meatballs by adding sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra depth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the savory profile for an unforgettable twist on this classic dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef or a mix with pork for added moisture and flavor
- Don’t skip searing; it creates a caramelized crust full of flavor
- Let the flavors meld by cooking low and slow for maximum tenderness and taste
I remember the first time I made Salisbury steak meatballs for my family; they devoured them in minutes, asking for seconds! It was a hit that turned into a cherished tradition at our dinner table.

FAQ
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making my own?
Yes, frozen meatballs work well; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
What sides pair best with Salisbury steak meatballs?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or buttery noodles complement these meatballs perfectly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice crackers or oats.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Slow Cooker)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately six servings 1x
Description
Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Slow Cooker) are a heartwarming dish that combines juicy beef meatballs with a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for cozy family dinners, these tender meatballs simmer in a luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice. Quick to prepare and easy to love, this recipe is ideal for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the meatballs on all sides (about 4-5 minutes).
- In another bowl, whisk together ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and beef broth until smooth.
- Place browned meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice with extra sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg




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