Print

Comforting Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Easy Homemade Recipe

slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs - featured image

This recipe transforms classic Salisbury steak flavors into tender meatballs slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s easy, hearty, and family-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned; Panko preferred)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Form the mixture into 18-20 meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet or plate.
  3. Optional: Brown the meatballs in a hot skillet with oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes per side for extra flavor.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, flour, soy sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder until smooth.
  5. Pour half of the gravy mixture into the slow cooker. Add meatballs in a single layer. Pour remaining gravy over meatballs.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until meatballs are tender and gravy thickened.
  7. If gravy is not thick enough, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water and stir into slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 15 more minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve over mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

Notes

Avoid overmixing meat to keep meatballs tender. Browning meatballs before slow cooking adds flavor but is optional. Use cornstarch slurry to thicken gravy if needed. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs and flour with almond flour and cornstarch respectively. Dairy-free options include almond or oat milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: Salisbury steak, meatballs, slow cooker, comfort food, easy dinner, homemade gravy, family-friendly