Name: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 egg; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup onion, finely minced; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 8 oz sliced mushrooms; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional); 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (for slurry); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are one of my favorite cozy, stick-to-your-ribs comfort meals. These juicy, tender meatballs are simmered in a rich mushroom and onion gravy that soaks into everything it touches — mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice. With minimal prep and big flavor, this is one of those slow cooker recipes I rely on when I want something hearty and satisfying without standing over the stove.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the nostalgic flavors of classic Salisbury steak with the ease of slow-cooked meatballs. The slow cooker does most of the work, and the result is deeply savory and delicious. It’s perfect for busy days when I want to come home to a hot meal that tastes like it took hours — because it did, but I didn’t have to do the work. Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatballs:

Ground beef
Egg
Breadcrumbs
Onion, finely minced
Garlic powder
Worcestershire sauce
Salt
Black pepper

For the gravy:

Sliced mushrooms
Onion, thinly sliced
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Tomato paste
Dijon mustard (optional)
Cornstarch + water (for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Make the meatballs:
I mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until just combined. I roll the mixture into meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches each).
Brown the meatballs (optional but recommended):
I sear the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until browned on the outside. This adds flavor and helps them hold together better in the slow cooker.
Layer in the slow cooker:
I place the sliced onions and mushrooms on the bottom of the slow cooker. Then I add the meatballs on top.
Make the gravy base:
I whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. I pour it over the meatballs and veggies.
Slow cook:
I cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2.5–3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Thicken the gravy:
About 30 minutes before serving, I mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker. I let it cook uncovered until the gravy thickens.
Serve:
I serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley if I want a pop of color.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 and takes about 15 minutes of prep and 5–6 hours of slow cooking.

Variations

Sometimes I use a mix of ground beef and turkey for a lighter version. I’ve also stirred in a splash of cream or sour cream at the end for a richer gravy. For more veggies, I add chopped carrots or green beans along with the mushrooms and onions.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The gravy thickens as it sits, so I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to loosen it up. This dish also freezes well — I portion it into containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

FAQs

Can I skip browning the meatballs?

Yes — but browning adds more flavor and helps them stay together better. I do recommend it if I have time.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Absolutely. I’ve used frozen meatballs in a pinch — just adjust the cooking time as needed. Homemade gives better flavor, though.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

I use the right ratio of breadcrumbs and egg, and I avoid overmixing. Browning also helps keep them firm during slow cooking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be — I use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure the broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.

What sides go well with this?

I usually serve it over mashed potatoes or noodles, with steamed green beans or roasted veggies on the side.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the definition of comfort food made easy. With rich, savory gravy and melt-in-your-mouth meatballs, this dish turns simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. Whether I’m feeding a family or stocking my freezer for busy nights, this recipe always earns a spot on my table — and in my regular dinner rotation.