Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

This slow cooker Salisbury steak meatball recipe transforms frozen meatballs into a comforting dinner that tastes like it took hours of preparation. The rich brown gravy develops amazing flavor as it simmers, creating the perfect sauce to ladle over fluffy mashed potatoes for a satisfying family meal.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed dinner to cook itself. My family was so impressed with the rich flavor that it's now in our regular rotation whenever I need a guaranteed dinnertime success.

Ingredients

• 1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs: about 30 35 meatballs. These provide the hearty base and absorb all the wonderful gravy flavors.
• 2 cups reduced sodium beef broth: Using reduced sodium allows you to control the final saltiness of the dish.
• 1 packet brown gravy mix: This creates the foundation for the silky sauce without any fuss.
• 1 packet onion soup mix: The secret ingredient that adds deep flavor and savory notes.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to balance the rich gravy.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides that umami depth that makes the gravy taste homemade.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: The thickening agent that transforms the liquid into a proper gravy.
• 2 tablespoons cold water: Always use cold water when making a cornstarch slurry for best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare The Slow Cooker:

Spray the insert of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This simple step saves hassle later when it's time to wash dishes.

Add The Meatballs:

Place the frozen meatballs directly into the prepared slow cooker. There's no need to thaw them first as they'll cook perfectly from frozen and will actually hold their shape better this way.

Create The Gravy Base:

In a mixing bowl whisk together the beef broth brown gravy mix packet onion soup mix packet ketchup and Worcestershire sauce until completely combined. Make sure there are no lumps of dry mix remaining as this ensures even flavor throughout the dish. Pour this mixture over the frozen meatballs and gently stir to coat each meatball.

Cook Low And Slow:

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to LOW heat for 5 6 hours. This long gentle cooking time allows the meatballs to become tender while absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the developing gravy. The sauce will also reduce slightly concentrating its flavor.

Thicken The Gravy:

When the cooking time is complete mix together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl using a fork until smooth and no lumps remain. Pour this slurry into the slow cooker stirring gently to incorporate. Allow it to cook for an additional 10 minutes with the lid on which activates the cornstarch and transforms the liquid into a glossy thick gravy.

Serve And Enjoy:

Ladle the Salisbury steak meatballs and plenty of gravy over mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

The brown gravy mix is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I've tried making similar dishes with homemade gravy base, but there's something magical about how the packet seasonings blend with the beef broth during the slow cooking process that creates the perfect Salisbury steak flavor that brings me back to childhood dinners.

Customize Your Meatballs

While classic beef meatballs are traditional for Salisbury steak, this recipe works beautifully with any variety of frozen meatballs. Turkey meatballs create a lighter version, while Italian style meatballs add an interesting herbal note to the finished dish. The versatility makes it easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. Just keep the total weight around 26 ounces so the gravy to meatball ratio remains perfect.

Make Ahead And Storage

This dish is the ultimate make ahead meal that actually improves with time. Prepare it up to two days before serving, allowing the flavors to meld even further in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. The meatballs and gravy also freeze beautifully for up to three months. Portion into freezer safe containers for quick individual meals that can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

While mashed potatoes are the classic pairing for these saucy meatballs, there are several other delicious options. Buttered egg noodles make an excellent base that catches all the gravy. For a lower carb option, consider serving over cauliflower mash or alongside roasted vegetables. Whatever you choose, make sure there's something to soak up that incredible gravy. A simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or green beans completes the meal with a fresh contrast to the rich main dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes! You can use homemade, fully cooked meatballs. Simply add them to the slow cooker and follow the same steps for the sauce and cooking time.

→ What type of beef broth works best?

Reduced-sodium beef broth is recommended to control saltiness. You can also use full-sodium broth if preferred or adjust the seasoning to your taste.

→ Can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

Adjust the cornstarch slurry to control the gravy's thickness. Use 1 tablespoon each of cornstarch and water for a thinner gravy or 2 tablespoons each for a thicker consistency.

→ What can I serve with Salisbury steak meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice. Add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can I use other types of meatballs?

Absolutely! You can swap in turkey, chicken, or Italian-style meatballs depending on your preference. The sauce will complement all types.