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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs - featured image

Tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, oniony mushroom gravy—all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This comforting family dinner is packed with classic Salisbury steak flavors and is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain, Italian-style, or panko)
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 small onion, grated (about 1/3 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water, for thickening)
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1 small onion, sliced thin

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture for each meatball and roll gently between your palms. Place shaped meatballs onto a tray or sheet pan; you should get 20-24 meatballs.
  3. Spray the bottom of your slow cooker with cooking spray or lightly coat with oil. Arrange meatballs in a single layer. Sprinkle sliced onions and mushrooms over the top, if using.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the meatballs and veggies.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2.5-3 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
  6. About 20 minutes before serving, stir together cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour into the slow cooker and gently mix. Let cook uncovered to thicken the gravy.
  7. Check for doneness: meatballs should be cooked to at least 160°F inside. Slice one open to ensure no pink remains.
  8. Serve meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. For vegetarian, substitute plant-based ground ‘beef’ and vegan mushroom soup. Wet hands when shaping meatballs to prevent sticking. Prep meatballs ahead for busy mornings. If gravy is too salty, use low-sodium broth and soup or add a splash of water. For browner meatballs, broil briefly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Salisbury steak, meatballs, slow cooker, comfort food, family dinner, easy recipe, beef, mushroom gravy, crockpot, weeknight meal