Name: Slow-Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488375H55M23S
Total time: PT-488375H55M23S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (80% lean or more); ½ cup plain panko breadcrumbs; ⅓ cup milk; 1 egg, slightly beaten; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 8 oz sliced mushrooms (optional but recommended)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

These slow-cooker Salisbury steak meatballs are a cozy and flavorful twist on the classic dish. I love how the slow cooking allows the meatballs to soak up all the rich flavors of the sauce, making them tender, juicy, and perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes a comfort food favorite and makes it easy in the slow cooker. The meatballs cook gently in a savory gravy, which means I don’t have to hover over the stove. I also like that the ingredients are simple and affordable, yet the result feels like a hearty, homey dinner that always satisfies.

Ingredients

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

1 lb lean ground beef (at least 80% lean)
½ cup plain panko breadcrumbs
⅓ cup milk
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
8 oz sliced mushrooms (optional, but delicious)

Directions

In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, panko, milk, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until just combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 to 1 ½ inches).
Place the meatballs in the bottom of a slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth and ketchup. Pour over the meatballs.
Add sliced mushrooms on top if using.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through.
If I want a thicker sauce, I whisk cornstarch with a little cold water, stir it into the slow cooker, and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Serve the meatballs with the savory gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is around 15 minutes, and cooking takes 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high.

Variations

Sometimes I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. I also like adding fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for extra flavor. For a more indulgent dish, I stir a spoonful of sour cream into the gravy before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months. To reheat, I warm them on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I brown the meatballs before putting them in the slow cooker?

Yes, I sometimes brown them in a skillet first for extra flavor, but it’s optional since the slow cooker does the work.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, I can substitute the panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

Can I skip the mushrooms?

Yes, I can leave them out if I prefer, but I find they add a great earthy flavor to the sauce.

Can I freeze the meatballs before cooking?

Yes, I can shape the raw meatballs and freeze them. When ready to cook, I add them directly to the slow cooker with the sauce, though they may need an extra hour of cooking.

What can I serve with Salisbury steak meatballs?

I like serving them over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. A side of roasted vegetables or a green salad balances out the meal.

Conclusion

These slow-cooker Salisbury steak meatballs are one of my favorite comfort food recipes because they’re hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. I love how the slow cooker does all the work, leaving me with tender meatballs in a rich gravy that’s perfect for serving over my favorite sides. It’s a classic dish with a cozy twist that always hits the spot.

Slow-Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs