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    Ambitious Foodie » Recipes » Mains

    Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (EASY Recipe!)

    Published: November 6, 2024 · Modified: May 24, 2025 By Imsen. This post may contain affiliate links. See the Privacy Policy at the bottom of this page.

    Jump to Recipe

    Easy and quick Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are the first ingredient in this simple slow cooker supper recipe. The greatest part is the deep dark gravy sauce that is made from beef broth and flavor mix packets. For a tasty dinner option this evening, serve over mashed potatoes.

    Insert of the crockpot with cooked meatballs in a gravy.
    Jump to:
    • Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (With Frozen Meatballs)
    • Ingredients Needed For Salisbury Meatballs
    • How To Make Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
    • How To Store Leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
    • Serving Suggestions For Easy Salisbury Meatballs
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • More Dinner Recipes To Try
    • Recipe
    • Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (With Frozen Meatballs)

    The simplicity of making these Salisbury steak meatballs will wow you! Store-bought frozen meatballs make this recipe easy to prepare, and since it's a dump-and-go slow cooker supper that cooks itself during the day, it's ideal for hectic weeknights. Dinner today only requires a few minutes of preparation in the morning.

    With tender meatballs and a rich brown gravy sauce that makes itself from beef broth and seasoning mix packets, this quick meatball variation has all the iconic characteristics of conventional salisbury steak. The whole family may enjoy these ideal comfort foods.

    I adore dishes that start with frozen meatballs because they are always so tasty and tender, and the preparation time is also very easy. Be sure to include these additional frozen meatball recipes in your dinner rotation: Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Easy Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs, and Sweet and Sour Meatballs (served over rice).

    mashed potatoes with gravy meatballs over top and a fork.

    Ingredients Needed For Salisbury Meatballs

    Ingredients for salisbury steak on a table.
    • Frozen Meatballs: This recipe calls for your preferred frozen meatballs. Costco's Kirkland Signature brand frozen meatballs are my favorite because they're delicious and a decent size. Use turkey meatballs, Italian meatballs, homestyle meatballs, or any other type you like.
    • Beef Broth: I generally advise using full-salt broth in slow cooker recipes because the longer cook time tends to significantly dilute the taste.
    • Package of Brown Gravy Mix
    • Packet of Onion Soup Mix
    • Ketchup
    • Sauce Worcestershire
    • Cornstarch: After the cooking period, the cornstarch slurry made from cornstarch and cold water helps to thicken the rich gravy sauce.

    How To Make Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

    Apply nonstick cooking spray to the slow cooker's insert.

    Fill the slow cooker insert with the frozen meatballs. Combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, onion soup mix packet, and gravy mix packet in a mixing dish and whisk until thoroughly blended. Stir everything together after pouring this over the frozen meatballs.

    Put the lid on and cook for 5 to 6 hours on LOW heat.

    After the cooking time is over, use a fork to combine the cornstarch and cold water in a small basin. After adding the cornstarch slurry, heat the crockpot for ten more minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.

    meatballs in a slow cooker with brown gravy.

    The Salisbury steak meatballs can be served over cooked white rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. Have fun!

    plate of meatballs with gravy over mashed potatoes.

    How To Store Leftover Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

    Any leftover meatballs can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container. Reheat leftovers and excess gravy in a pot over the stove or in the microwave until thoroughly warm.

    Serving Suggestions For Easy Salisbury Meatballs

    • You can serve these succulent meatballs as an appetizer right out of the slow cooker. All you need to do is set the slow cooker to KEEP WARM, provide a slotted spoon or toothpicks for picking, and you're ready to go. For a whole appetizer, serve it with some raw vegetables that have just been sliced.
    • For a quick and simple meatball sandwich, you may alternatively put the meatballs on a hoagie bun. Add more ingredients and your preferred cheese on top.
    • Serving these brown meatballs with mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower, green beans, sliced onions, or even on a bed of egg noodles is a great way to enjoy this pleasant comfort dish. Make sure to top with a generous amount of the mushroom gravy.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What Type of Frozen Meatballs Do I Use?

    For this dish, you can use your preferred kind of frozen meatballs. About 25 to 30 meatballs, or 26 ounces, are what you want. I prefer the traditional homestyle meatballs, but you may substitute Italian, turkey, or any other type you desire. I count out roughly thirty of the Costco frozen meatballs from the package.

    Do I Need To Thaw The Meatballs Before Cooking Them?

    The frozen meatballs can be just thrown into the crockpot. Don't thaw!

    Can I Use Homemade Meatballs?

    You certainly can. Instead of buying frozen meatballs, make your favorite homemade meatball recipe. You will need roughly thirty meatballs, and they should be roughly the same size and diameter as the store-bought ones.

    How do I create more sauce or gravy?

    Water can be substituted with vegetable broth, chicken broth, or beef broth, but you'll need to use more than the recipe specifies. A can of mushroom soup is an additional option.

    How do I store leftover slow cooker salisbury steak meatballs?

    Any leftover meatballs should be kept in an airtight container. To store with it, pour sauce on top. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to four days.

    If you tried this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs or any other recipe on my website, please feel free to leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it goes in the 📝 comments below. And remember to tag me on Instagram!

    More Dinner Recipes To Try

    • Super Creamy Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
    • Easy Hash Brown Potato Soup (With Frozen Hash Browns)
    • The Best Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
    • Buffalo Wild Wings CrockPot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
    • EASY Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf Recipe
    • Quick And Easy Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole

    Recipe

    Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe

    This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs delves into comfort food territory with these bite-sized pieces of goodness! Tender meatballs bob in a rich brown gravy, flavored with onions and mushrooms, and they are delicious, bite after bite. As simple as a slow cooker, this recipe is for those busy days when you’d like a home-cooked meal, without too much of the fuss.
    5 from 18 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Course: dinner, main dish
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 6 hours hours
    Total Time: 6 hours hours 5 minutes minutes
    Servings: 6
    Calories: 76kcal
    Author: Imsen
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    INGREDIENTS

    • 1 bag 26 oz frozen meatballs
    • 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
    • 1 packet brown gravy mix or homemade gravy
    • 1 packet onion soup mix
    • 2 ½ tablespoons ketchup
    • 1 ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 2 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
    • 2 ½ tablespoons cold water

    INSTRUCTIONS

    • Make the Gravy Whisk the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup and water in a bowl. Add the gravy mix packet and onion soup mix packet, mixing until well combined. That makes for a deep and flavorful sauce without a ton of seasoning.
    • Combine in the Slow Cooker – Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker, and pour over the mixing bowl of prepared gravy. Gently stir to coat all the meatballs.
    • Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, during which time the meatballs will soak up the savory flavors. Stir and break well to mix and cook evenly.
    • Thicken and Serve — 30 minutes before serving: In a very small bowl, combine cornstarch with a bright splash of water to form a slurry, then stir into slow cooker’s gravy, to thicken consistency. When the sauce is at a desired consistency.

    NOTES

    • For Over-Thickening – if the gravy is too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Adding liquid gradually preserves the hearty flavor and keeps it from getting sloppy.
    • Deepen the Flavor — For a more bruise-in-your-face, homemade flavor, stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the gravy. “Just a pinch of paprika or smoked paprika can also add a nice gentle warmth and depth of flavor to the dish.”

    NUTRITION

    Calories: 76kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 367mg | Potassium: 231mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 35IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 1mg
    Keyword crockpot, meatball, meatballs, slow cooker
    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Follow @ambitiousfoodieblog on Instagram, take a shot, and tag it #ambitiousfoodieblog! I love to see what you are making!

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    Comments

      5 from 18 votes

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Jasmine Bell says

      July 13, 2023 at 5:12 pm

      I adore slow cooker recipes like these—so easy and satisfying! This will be great when I need something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

      Reply
    2. Ariel Campbell says

      August 22, 2023 at 5:22 pm

      This is exactly what I need for a cozy dinner! I always keep frozen meatballs on hand, so this is perfect for those last-minute meal plans. Can’t wait to dig into that gravy!

      Reply
    3. Angelica King says

      September 05, 2023 at 2:30 am

      Oh my gosh, this recipe looks like a total lifesaver for busy weeknights! I love that you can just dump everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Plus, who doesn’t love a good meatball dish?

      Reply
    4. Cora James says

      October 08, 2023 at 9:41 pm

      I’m all about easy meals like this one! It’s awesome that you can just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its thing. Perfect for family dinners after a long day.

      Reply
    5. Hailey Peterson says

      October 16, 2023 at 8:28 am

      I love how simple yet delicious this recipe is! Slow cookers make life so much easier, especially when you can set it and forget it. Looking forward to some hearty comfort food tonight!

      Reply
    6. Faith Torres says

      December 24, 2023 at 5:01 pm

      'Frozen meatballs' are a game changer in my kitchen! This recipe looks super comforting and easy to whip up after a long day. Can't wait to savor every bite with family!

      Reply
    7. Grace Lee says

      December 24, 2023 at 9:23 pm

      This sounds like ultimate comfort food! I'm all in for the rich gravy and tender meatballs. Can't wait to serve this at our next family gathering—everyone will love it!

      Reply
    8. Kate Wilson says

      January 05, 2024 at 4:38 am

      This is such a comforting recipe! I appreciate how quick and simple it is, especially with frozen meatballs. Definitely adding this to my dinner rotation for those hectic nights!

      Reply
    9. Fiona Garcia says

      January 11, 2024 at 9:46 am

      Love how straightforward this recipe is! It's great that you can use any kind of frozen meatballs too; I might even try turkey ones for a healthier twist. Yum!

      Reply
    10. Isla Diaz says

      February 22, 2024 at 10:52 am

      'Comfort food' is my middle name, and these meatballs are calling my name! I love how versatile they are too—great as an appetizer or over rice. What’s not to love?

      Reply
    11. Aurora Long says

      February 24, 2024 at 10:07 am

      Yum! Slow cooker meals are my jam, especially when they involve meatballs. The gravy sounds heavenly; I can already picture it over some fluffy egg noodles!

      Reply
    12. Camila Ross says

      April 11, 2024 at 10:48 am

      Wow, this looks super tasty! I love how versatile these meatballs are—great for sandwiches or served over rice. I'm definitely going to give this a whirl soon!

      Reply
    13. Molly Carter says

      April 20, 2024 at 7:22 am

      I’m definitely trying this out tonight! The idea of serving those tender meatballs over mashed potatoes sounds heavenly. Comfort food at its finest, right? Yum!

      Reply
    14. Kaitlyn Butler says

      June 07, 2024 at 11:47 am

      Oh my gosh, this recipe sounds so easy and delicious! I love that it's a dump-and-go kind of meal—perfect for my busy evenings. Can't wait to try it with mashed potatoes!

      Reply
    15. Alyssa Morgan says

      June 09, 2024 at 3:26 pm

      'Dump-and-go' is music to my ears! I’m excited to give these meatballs a try and maybe pair them with some green beans on the side for a complete meal. Thanks for sharing this gem!

      Reply
    16. Maggie Butler says

      August 01, 2024 at 9:34 am

      'Easy' and 'delicious' are two words that get me every time! This recipe sounds like the perfect solution for busy evenings when I want something warm and filling. Bring on the gravy!

      Reply
    17. Hailey Peterson says

      August 22, 2024 at 4:44 am

      'Dump-and-go' is music to my ears! This dish is perfect for busy moms like me who still want to serve something delicious. Plus, who doesn't love a good gravy?

      Reply
    18. Esme Bryant says

      September 17, 2024 at 5:57 am

      This Salisbury steak meatball recipe sounds amazing! I’m all about easy dinners that still feel special. That deep dark gravy will be the cherry on top of my mashed potatoes!

      Reply
    19. Georgia Phillips says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:49 am

      5 stars
      This sounds easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

      Reply
    20. Phoebe Wilson says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:49 am

      5 stars
      I like that it uses frozen meatballs.

      Reply
    21. Kennedy Cooper says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:49 am

      5 stars
      Seems like a quick way to make dinner.

      Reply
    22. Brittany Ward says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:49 am

      5 stars
      The gravy looks tasty.

      Reply
    23. Chloe Ross says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:49 am

      5 stars
      I might try this recipe soon.

      Reply
    24. Patricia Howard says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:49 am

      5 stars
      Good to have easy recipes for busy days.

      Reply
    25. Matilda Hayes says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:49 am

      5 stars
      Sounds like a comforting meal.

      Reply
    26. Casey Bell says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:49 am

      5 stars
      'Dump-and-go' is my kind of cooking!

      Reply
    27. Scarlett Bailey says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:50 am

      5 stars
      This looks easy to make.

      Reply
    28. Aspen Green says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:50 am

      5 stars
      I like that it uses frozen meatballs.

      Reply
    29. Olivia Clark says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:50 am

      5 stars
      Seems like a good recipe for busy days.

      Reply
    30. Gabriella Reed says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:50 am

      5 stars
      I might try this for dinner sometime.

      Reply
    31. Hunter Ford says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:50 am

      5 stars
      The gravy sounds tasty.

      Reply
    32. Gianna Fox says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:50 am

      5 stars
      I appreciate the cooking tips.

      Reply
    33. Rebecca Clark says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:50 am

      5 stars
      Looks simple enough for anyone to do.

      Reply
    34. Annabelle Sanders says

      November 10, 2024 at 7:50 am

      5 stars
      'Dump-and-go' is nice for weeknights.

      Reply
    35. Lisa says

      January 06, 2025 at 1:09 am

      5 stars
      Better than the common recipe that uses two packets of brown gravy. The onion soup mix gives more depth of flavor.
      I used water instead of broth since I didn't have low-sodium (I'm a habitual salter, but this really doesn't need any additional), and forgot to add the cornstarch, but it was still very good and an easy, mostly hands-off dinner. Will be making this again!

      Reply
      • Imsen says

        January 06, 2025 at 5:49 pm

        5 stars
        Hey, Lisa! Thank you for your kind feedback! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe and made it your own with the adjustments. It’s great to hear it worked well even without the cornstarch, and I agree—the onion soup mix adds such a nice depth. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy it just as much next time! 😊

        Reply

    Hi, This is Imsen! I'm the author, recipe developer, and photographer behind Ambitious Foodie. Welcome to my virtual kitchen! If you're wondering what's for dinner, you've come to the right place.

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