If you’re looking for an easy and comforting meal that comes together with minimal effort, these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a perfect choice. Using frozen meatballs as the base, this dish is not only simple but incredibly flavorful, with a rich, savory gravy that is perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, rice, or even over egg noodles. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to set it and forget it while the meatballs soak up all the delicious flavors. This recipe is a time-saver without compromising on taste, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or even meal prepping for the week. The combination of beef broth, onion soup mix, and a few key ingredients creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the meatballs into a hearty, satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or serving a small group, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor

With frozen meatballs as the base, this recipe requires very little prep work while still delivering a delicious and comforting meal.

2. Slow Cooker Convenience

Set it and forget it! The slow cooker does the hard work for you, making this recipe perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

3. Family-Friendly

This recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family, especially picky eaters. The rich gravy and tender meatballs are flavorful and appealing to all ages.

4. Affordable and Simple Ingredients

Using frozen meatballs and a few pantry staples makes this recipe both budget-friendly and easy to whip up without needing a long shopping list.

5. Customizable

Feel free to adjust the seasoning, use a different type of meatball, or serve it over a variety of sides to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Frozen meatballs (26 oz bag, about 30-35 meatballs)
Reduced-sodium beef broth
Brown gravy mix
Onion soup mix
Ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Cornstarch
Cold water

Variations

Add Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms, peas, or carrots to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal that’s even more hearty.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gravy mix and onion soup mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the gravy for a bit of heat.
Different Meatballs: Feel free to use turkey, chicken, or pork meatballs if you prefer a lighter version.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium beef broth to make the dish lower in sodium.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour the mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating of the meatballs in the gravy.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water together until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.

Step 5: Serve

Once the sauce has thickened, stir the meatballs and gravy together and serve hot. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

Tips for Making the Recipe

No need to thaw the meatballs: You can add the meatballs directly from the freezer, saving time and hassle.
Thickening the gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a little more cornstarch and water mixture until you reach your desired consistency.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce as needed to suit your taste.

How to Serve

This dish is best served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. The rich gravy will soak into the side, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Salisbury steak meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use homemade meatballs. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

2. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook on high for about 3 hours, but cooking on low allows the flavors to meld together more effectively.

3. Can I use beef stew meat instead of meatballs?

While this recipe is specifically for meatballs, you can try using beef stew meat, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as it may require a longer cooking time to become tender.

4. What can I use instead of brown gravy mix?

You can make your own gravy using a combination of beef broth, flour, and seasonings if you don’t have gravy mix on hand.

5. Is this recipe suitable for a slow cooker with a larger capacity?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe for larger slow cookers. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

6. Can I make this dish without Worcestershire sauce?

Yes, you can omit Worcestershire sauce if you don’t have it. You can also substitute it with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

7. How can I make the gravy thicker?

If the gravy is too thin, add a bit more cornstarch and water, then cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken.

8. Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute for beef broth.

9. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms to the slow cooker can create a more complete meal.

10. How do I serve this dish?

Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a hearty meal, and pair it with vegetables for a well-rounded dish.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs offer a simple, flavorful meal that requires little effort and delivers big taste. With frozen meatballs as the base and a rich, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or when you need a comforting meal without much fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, making it an easy and convenient option for any night of the week. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, these meatballs are sure to satisfy.