Salisbury steak meatballs (slow cooker) are the epitome of comfort food. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs drenched in a rich brown gravy that wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. chicken broccoli orzo dish The aroma alone can make even the grumpiest person smile and start reminiscing about cozy family dinners.
This dish brings back memories of my childhood, where my mom would whip up Salisbury steak for special occasions. We’d gather around the table, forks poised, eager to dig into those savory bites. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience that will make you want to go back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Salisbury steak meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner a breeze
- The savory flavor profile will leave your taste buds dancing with joy
- They look delightful served over creamy mashed potatoes, creating a visually appealing plate
- Versatile enough for weeknight meals or special gatherings, these meatballs fit any occasion perfectly
My friends couldn’t stop raving about this dish at our last potluck; it was gone before I could even grab a plate!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess fat.
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Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs as they provide the perfect binding without overpowering the flavor.
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Eggs: Two eggs help hold everything together while adding moisture and richness.
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Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; use yellow or white onions for best results.
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Garlic Powder: A must-have for that extra punch of flavor without the chopping hassle.
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Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce brings umami goodness, making your meatballs irresistibly savory.
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Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth as the base for the gravy; it enhances flavor without being too salty.
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Cornstarch: This thickening agent helps achieve that luscious gravy consistency we all crave.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it; we want tender meatballs!
Shape Those Meatballs: With clean hands (and maybe some music playing in the background), roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet so they’re ready for cooking.
Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional): If you want to take it up a notch, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each meatball until browned on all sides—this step adds amazing flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving side dishes recipe.
Add to Slow Cooker with Gravy Ingredients: Place the browned or raw meatballs into your slow cooker. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth and cornstarch until smooth; then pour over the meatballs.
Set It and Forget It!: Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The magic happens here as flavors meld together beautifully while you go about your day!
Serve with Mashed Potatoes or Rice: When ready to serve, scoop out those glorious meatballs along with gravy onto creamy mashed potatoes recipe-for-cozy-nights/”>crockpot potato soup recipe hearty sausage and potato soup Enjoy every savory bite! crockpot chicken piccata.
With these steps in mind, you’re well on your way to creating mouthwatering Salisbury steak meatballs (slow cooker) that will have everyone asking for more!
You Must Know
- The secret to delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs lies in the seasoning
- A good mix transforms ordinary meatballs into a flavor explosion
- Plus, watch out for over-mixing; that can ruin their texture!
- Keep it light and fluffy for the best results
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs in a skillet for a rich flavor, then transfer them to the slow cooker with sauce. This method ensures deep, savory goodness permeates every bite.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap beef for turkey or add mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Customize the sauce with Worcestershire or even barbecue sauce to match your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your meat mixture moist by adding breadcrumbs soaked in milk; this gives them that delightful juiciness
- Don’t forget to let the sauce simmer long enough to meld flavors together perfectly
- And remember, patience is key when using a slow cooker!
I once made these Salisbury Steak Meatballs for a potluck, and they vanished faster than I could say “slow cooker.” Everyone raved about them, and I couldn’t help but feel like a culinary rock star!

FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Yes, ground turkey works well and makes for a lighter dish.
How long should I cook Salisbury Steak Meatballs in the slow cooker?
Cook them on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What can I serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Serve them over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal.
Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4–6 1x
Description
Salisbury steak meatballs in the slow cooker are a comforting classic that brings joy with every bite. These tender meatballs, infused with savory flavors and smothered in rich brown gravy, offer a nostalgic experience reminiscent of family dinners. Easy to prepare, they’re perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, served best over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. Get ready for an unforgettable taste sensation that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- (Optional) Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each meatball until browned for added flavor.
- Place raw or browned meatballs into the slow cooker. Whisk together beef broth and cornstarch; pour over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg




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