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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy, this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time5 hours
Total Time5 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Keyword: comfort food, Family Dinner, Meatballs, Salisbury Steak, Slow Cooker
Servings: 6 meatballs
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner) Look for high-quality beef for the tastiest meatballs.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned) These add a delightful texture and help hold the meatballs together.
  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion Tiny bursts of sweetness that enhance flavor.
  • 1 large egg This helps in binding all your melty goodness together.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced The aromatic kick you can’t resist.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce A must for that classic savory depth in flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley For a hint of freshness!
  • ½ teaspoon salt To elevate all the flavors.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper A little bit of heat that pairs beautifully.

For the Gravy

  • 1 cup beef broth The liquid gold that will turn into heavenly gravy.
  • ½ cup onions, thinly sliced Add layers of sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce A double dose for that umami!
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional) For deeper flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour For thickening the gravy.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder For a mellow garlic flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder For added depth.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper For perfect balance.

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  • Form meatballs about 1 ½ inches in diameter, aiming for 20-24 meatballs.

Browning the Meatballs (Optional)

  • Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side and set aside.

Preparing the Gravy

  • In the same sauté pan, add the sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent.
  • Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for an additional minute.
  • Slowly pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Stir until well-combined and bring to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes.

Slow Cooking

  • Transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker in a single layer and pour the gravy over them. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours.

Serving

  • Carefully remove meatballs from the slow cooker and serve with gravy over the top.

Notes

Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Experiment with sides like green beans for balance.