Name: Salisbury Steak Meatballs in Savory Gravy for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 370 min
Ingredients: 30-35 pieces Frozen Meatballs (Choose homestyle, turkey, or Italian.); 4 cups Reduced-Sodium Beef Broth; 1 packet Brown Gravy Mix; 1 packet Onion Soup Mix; 1/2 cup Ketchup (Optional sugar-free version.); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce; 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Adjust for preferred thickness.); 1/4 cup Cold Water

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of simmering comfort food filled the air, instantly transporting me to cozy family dinners on busy weeknights. If you’re craving a classic yet simplified meal, these Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are just what you need! By turning this beloved dish into tender, flavorful meatballs cooked in a savory gravy, I’ve managed to create a quick and easy dinner that requires minimal effort. Perfect for busy lives, this hearty recipe is not only family-friendly but also a fantastic way to indulge in comforting flavors without the hours of fuss. Whether you serve them over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy egg noodles, your family will eagerly gather around the table. So, are you ready to turn your slow cooker into a comfort food haven? Let’s dive into this delicious journey!

Why will you love Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can have a satisfying meal with minimal prep time.

Comforting Flavors: The rich gravy enveloping the meatballs brings a nostalgic taste reminiscent of classic Salisbury steak dinners.

Family-Friendly: This dish is perfect for picky eaters and sure to please everyone around the table, making it a fantastic weeknight option.

Versatile: Feel free to swap in homemade meatballs or customize the broth for your family’s taste preferences. For an added twist, check out my delicious Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs for a unique take!

Time-Saver: Set it and forget it! This meal cooks while you go about your day, allowing for great flexibility in busy schedules.

Satisfying Texture: Expect tender, juicy meatballs drenched in glossy gravy, serving up a plate of pure comfort.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Ingredients

For the Meatballs
• Frozen Meatballs – About 30-35 meatballs (26 oz bag) for a hearty meal; choose homestyle, turkey, or Italian for a fun twist.

For the Gravy
• Reduced-Sodium Beef Broth – Adds depth and moisture; opt for low-sodium to manage saltiness.
• Brown Gravy Mix – Thickens the gravy while adding flavor; consider reduced-sodium versions if needed.
• Onion Soup Mix – Introduces sweetness and savoriness; any standard onion soup mix works well here.
• Ketchup – Adds a hint of sweetness and tang; feel free to use a sugar-free version for fewer calories.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor, perfectly complementing the beef.

For Thickening
• Cornstarch – Used for thickening the gravy at the end; adjust the quantity for your preferred thickness.
• Cold Water – Combines with cornstarch to make a silky slurry to thicken that rich gravy.

Get ready to create a mouthwatering dish of Salisbury Steak Meatballs that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Begin by spraying the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring an easy clean-up later. Set your slow cooker to LOW; this will allow the Salisbury Steak Meatballs to cook slowly, absorbing all the flavors from the gravy. This simple step is key to achieving that tender, juicy texture everyone loves.

Step 2: Add the Meatballs
Unpack your frozen meatballs, about 30-35, and carefully place them directly into the slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand, which saves you time! Layer them evenly, ensuring they have space to soak up that luscious gravy as the dish cooks. This initial step is vital for that satisfying, hearty bite.

Step 3: Whisk the Gravy Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the reduced-sodium beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well-mixed, creating a rich, flavorful sauce. Once thoroughly combined, pour this savory mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker, gently stirring to coat each meatball.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Meal
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and let the Salisbury Steak Meatballs cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. During this time, the meatballs will warm through and become infused with the delicious gravy flavors. After a few hours, you should see the gravy simmering, thickening, and enveloping the meatballs beautifully.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
About ten minutes before serving, prepare a thickening slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this cornstarch slurry into the gravy in the slow cooker, allowing it to simmer for an extra ten minutes. This crucial step will give your Salisbury Steak Meatballs a glossy, thick gravy that clings onto each meatball perfectly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, spoon the Salisbury Steak Meatballs over fluffy egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes for an effortlessly delightful meal. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Take a moment to relish the warm, comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen as your family gathers around the table, ready to enjoy this satisfying dinner.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delicious meatballs to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Homemade Meatballs: Swap out frozen meatballs for your favorite homemade version, ensuring they’re about the same size for even cooking. They’ll be bursting with fresh flavors!
Broth Variety: Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter twist. It can add a new depth of flavor that you’ll love!
Gravy Swap: Try using a homemade gravy recipe or a low-carb version to cater to specific dietary needs. Nothing beats a family recipe added into the mix!
Veggie Boost: Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the slow cooker. This will enhance the dish’s nutritional profile while adding a delightful texture.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a little heat. It gives the dish an exciting twist that spice lovers will appreciate!
Alternative Sauces: Instead of ketchup, use barbecue sauce or a sugar-free variant to alter the taste while maintaining that delightful sweetness. It’s a fun take on the traditional flavor!
Gluten-Free Version: Ensure that your gravy mix and broth are gluten-free, and this recipe can easily fit gluten-free diets without compromising flavor.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream right before serving for an extra creamy touch that elevates the overall richness!

As you explore these variations, you might stumble upon a combination you adore! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out my delightful Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak or Sweet Sticky Steak Bites. Happy cooking!

Storage Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure the container is sealed properly to retain the flavorful gravy.

Freezer: For longer storage, these Salisbury Steak Meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to prevent drying out.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen meatballs in the fridge overnight before reheating them. This helps keep the texture tender and juicy.

What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Elevate your cozy dinner experience by pairing these savory meatballs with delightful sides that complement their rich flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, this classic side absorbs the delicious gravy, creating a comforting bite in every mouthful.
Fluffy Egg Noodles: Perfectly tender and able to capture the savory sauce, egg noodles offer a lightness that balances the heartiness of the meatballs.
Steamed Green Beans: With a fresh crunch, these vibrant vegetables add a pop of color and a light texture to your meal, cutting through the richness beautifully.
Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the rich gravy, allowing you to enjoy every last drop of that comforting sauce.
Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with a tangy vinaigrette contrasts the warmth of the meatballs, adding a refreshing element to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet and caramelized, roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts enhance the comforting flavors, offering a nutritious balance to your hearty meal.
Apple Pie: For a sweet ending, serve a slice of warm apple pie; its spices harmonize beautifully with the savory flavors of the meatballs, creating a nostalgic finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the gravy mixture and even add the frozen meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the reduced-sodium beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just pop the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker, pour the prepared gravy over them, and set it to cook on LOW for 5-6 hours. This not only saves time but ensures a delicious meal awaits you with minimal effort when dinner time rolls around. Enjoy hassle-free cooking that still delivers all the comforting flavors you love!

Expert Tips for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

No Thawing Required: Simply add frozen meatballs directly to the slow cooker; there’s no need to waste time thawing them beforehand.
Sodium Control: Opt for reduced-sodium beef broth and gravy mix to manage the overall saltiness; this keeps your dish flavorful yet healthier.
Gravy Consistency: If you prefer thinner gravy, feel free to skip the cornstarch slurry. For a thicker gravy, adjust the cornstarch as needed.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs and gravy mixture the night before, store in the fridge, and cook the next day for a quick meal.
Veggie Boost: To pack in more nutrition, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the meatballs.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, making them a delicious ready-to-reheat meal later.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe FAQs

What type of frozen meatballs should I use?
You can choose from classic homestyle, turkey, or even Italian frozen meatballs. I recommend opting for homestyle meatballs for a traditional flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich gravy.

How long will leftovers stay fresh in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to seal the container tightly to keep the delicious gravy intact and flavorful.

Can I freeze Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Absolutely! These meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and don’t forget to label it with the date for easy tracking!

What should I do if my gravy is too thin?
If your gravy turns out thinner than you’d like, simply mix additional cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry (about 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water works well) and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Let it cook a few minutes more until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make gluten-free Salisbury Steak Meatballs, you can use gluten-free gravy mix and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free. Many brands provide suitable options, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting dish!

Is this recipe safe for my pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing these Salisbury Steak Meatballs with your pets as they contain onions and garlic from the onion soup mix and Worcestershire sauce, both of which can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consult with your vet before sharing any human food with your pets!