These easy slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs are perfect for a cozy dinner! Juicy meatballs are smothered in a rich gravy that warms you right up.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish where the meatballs do all the work? Just toss them in the slow cooker, and let the magic happen while you relax or binge-watch your favorite show!
I enjoy serving these scrumptious meatballs over mashed potatoes or pasta for a comforting meal. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for lighter options, try ground turkey or lean ground beef, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a light, crispy texture to the meatballs. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too! Just be careful with the quantity, as they absorb moisture differently.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is key for the sauce’s creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or a cashew cream; however, the flavor will be different.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to your meatballs and sauce. If you’re out of it, soy sauce can be a decent substitute, or if you’re cooking for kids, a bit of barbecue sauce works too!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Juicy and Delicious?
Getting the right texture and moisture in meatballs is crucial. Here’s how to keep them juicy:
- Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients; overmixing can make them tough.
- Shape with care: Make the meatballs uniform in size. This helps them cook evenly!
- Slow cooking is key: Cooking in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meatballs tender.
If you feel adventurous, you can add a bit of shredded cheese to the meat mixture for an extra flavor boost!
Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll let the slow cooker do the work! Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Perfect for those busy days when you want to come home to a warm, tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are just combined—don’t overmix or your meatballs might be tough!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
With your hands, shape the meat mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them gently in a single layer in the slow cooker. This helps them cook evenly!
3. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until combined. This will create a tasty sauce that adds flavor to your meatballs!
4. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Make sure the meatballs are well coated.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender. You can relax during this time—no fussing in the kitchen!
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker gravy, carefully remove the meatballs from the slow cooker and stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes until it thickens. Then, return the meatballs to the sauce and stir to coat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your meatballs with chopped fresh parsley before serving. They’re delicious over mashed potatoes or egg noodles—perfect comfort food!
Enjoy this comforting, easy-to-make slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a bit more moisture like extra milk or some finely grated veggies for a juicier result.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the meatballs and sauce on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them in the fridge and cook as directed.
What Should I Serve with Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or even a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Feel free to get creative with sides that complement the rich gravy!
