
Juicy Meatballs in a Rich, Savory Gravy – The Ultimate Slow Cooker Meal!
If you love the classic flavors of Salisbury steak but want something easier and more bite-sized, then these Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are for you!
Tender, juicy meatballs simmer in a savory brown gravy made with onions, mushrooms, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce—all cooked low and slow for maximum flavor. These rich and hearty meatballs pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, making them an easy and comforting weeknight dinner.
The best part? Since this is a slow cooker recipe, it’s completely hands-off—just mix, shape, and let your crockpot do the work!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 500g ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 250g ground pork (for extra tenderness)
- 50g breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg (50g), beaten
- 2 tablespoons milk (30ml)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (10ml)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (1g)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (1g)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Gravy:
- 1 medium onion (150g), thinly sliced
- 200g mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups beef broth (500ml)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (30ml)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5g)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (5g)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
For Serving:
- Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined (don’t overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender).
- Roll into 1-inch (2.5cm) meatballs and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended)
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides for 3–4 minutes (they don’t need to be fully cooked—just seared for extra flavor).
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Place the sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the seared meatballs on top.
- In a bowl, mix together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder, then pour it over the meatballs.
Step 4: Cook Low & Slow
- Low heat: Cook for 5–6 hours
- High heat: Cook for 2.5–3 hours
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
- 30 minutes before serving, stir the cornstarch slurry into the gravy.
- Let it cook uncovered until the gravy thickens.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Spoon the meatballs and rich gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 6 Servings)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fats: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Salisbury Steak Meatballs
✨ Use a mix of beef and pork – This makes the meatballs juicier and more flavorful.
✨ Don’t skip searing – Browning the meatballs before slow cooking locks in flavor and gives them a delicious crust.
✨ Thicken the gravy at the end – Adding the cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes keeps the gravy smooth and silky.
✨ Make ahead & freeze – You can prepare and freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just thaw before cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy & Hands-Off – Just mix, shape, and let the slow cooker do all the work!
✔ Super Juicy Meatballs – Slow cooking makes them extra tender.
✔ Rich, Savory Gravy – The perfect sauce for mashed potatoes or noodles.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week.
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