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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free ingredients are used)

Description

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs combine tender, flavorful meatballs with a rich, savory gravy, all slow-cooked to perfection for a comforting and effortless meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers juicy meatballs infused with classic Salisbury steak flavors, enriched by a creamy mushroom gravy. Serve over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice for a hearty family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Gravy

  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (additional)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch mixed with water (for thickening)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to blend everything evenly without overworking the meat. Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, to ensure even cooking.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Using a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the meatballs in batches for 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds a beautiful caramelized crust that enhances flavor. Transfer the browned meatballs to your slow cooker as you finish each batch.
  3. Prepare the Gravy: In the same skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms and additional onions until soft and fragrant. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and the flour or cornstarch slurry to thicken. Let the mixture simmer briefly, then pour the gravy over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
  4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The meatballs will cook gently and absorb all the flavors from the gravy, resulting in tender, juicy meatballs.
  5. Finish the Sauce: Before serving, stir in sour cream or heavy cream into the gravy for added richness and silkiness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Notes

  • Don’t skip browning the meatballs first as it improves flavor and texture dramatically.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  • Allow the meatballs to rest in the slow cooker with the lid off for 15 minutes after cooking to thicken the gravy.
  • If the gravy is too thin, mix additional cornstarch or flour with water and simmer directly in the slow cooker until thickened.
  • For gluten-free variations, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Salisbury steak, meatballs, slow cooker, comfort food, beef meatballs, easy dinner, slow cooker meal

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/slow-cooker-salisbury-steak-meatballs/