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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Nonstick skillet (optional for browning meatballs)

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Gravy

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water slurry

Instructions
 

  • Mix the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  • Shape and Brown (Optional): Roll into meatballs, about 1 ½ inches in size. For extra flavor, sear them in a skillet with olive oil until browned on the outside.
  • Prepare the Slow Cooker: Add sliced onions and mushrooms to the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the meatballs on top.
  • Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Pour over meatballs.
  • Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours until meatballs are tender.
  • Thicken the Gravy: Stir in cornstarch slurry during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Stir gently and let the sauce thicken before serving.

Notes

Tips for the Best Results

  • Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, or they’ll turn tough.
  • Browning the meatballs first isn’t required, but it adds extra depth of flavor.
  • If you like extra-thick gravy, use less beef broth or add more cornstarch slurry.
  • Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap beef for a lighter option.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch.
  • Creamier Gravy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Try meatless meatballs with the same gravy for a plant-based option.
Keyword Slow Cooker,