If you’re craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that practically melts in your mouth, let me introduce you to the Creamy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe. This dish is a luscious combination of tender beef meatballs swimming in a velvety mushroom gravy, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s comfort food at its finest—simple ingredients come together to create layers of robust flavor, perfect for cozy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal fuss. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to for satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a key role in bringing texture, richness, and depth to the dish. From the lean ground beef providing hearty substance to the creamy mushroom soup that forms the gravy’s luxurious base, every element is essential.
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef: The foundation of the meatballs, providing juicy, savory flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them tender.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture for a softer, more succulent texture.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Brings aromatic depth and a subtle sweetness to the meat mixture.
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a tangy, umami boost.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides mild heat and a peppery kick.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy, comforting base of the gravy.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Intensifies the savory character of the gravy.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup: A hint of sweetness and acidity balances the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor in the gravy.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides additional savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional slurry): For thickening the gravy to your preferred consistency.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and mild herbaceousness.
How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mixing just until everything comes together ensures your meatballs stay tender and juicy rather than tough.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs with your hands. This uniform size helps them cook evenly throughout in the slow cooker. You can gently shape them without compacting too much to avoid dense meatballs.
Step 3: Place Meatballs in Slow Cooker
Grease the bottom of your slow cooker lightly and arrange the meatballs in a single layer. They don’t need to be crowded but close enough so the sauce will surround them and soak in all that fantastic flavor.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Gravy
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, onion powder, and garlic powder. This mixture forms the rich, creamy gravy that will cook with the meatballs and keep them tender and moist.
Step 5: Pour Sauce and Set Slow Cooker
Pour the gravy over the meatballs, ensuring they’re mostly submerged. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and wonderfully tender.
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer your gravy a bit thicker, stir the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) into the slow cooker during the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it time to thicken without compromising the silkiness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once done, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh burst of color and mild flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is perfect, but you can also add a sprinkle of chopped chives or a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. These small touches make each serving feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs like a dream with classic mashed potatoes, allowing the creamy gravy to soak right in. If you want to change things up, buttered egg noodles or steamed rice are fantastic options that soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family meal, serve the meatballs in a deep dish topped with gravy and herbs. For a more casual appetizer, consider placing meatballs on skewers paired with small ramekins of gravy for dipping—this is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. This recipe holds up beautifully, and the flavors often deepen overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze the meatballs and gravy together or separately in freezer-safe containers. For best quality, use within 2 to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in short bursts to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, though the flavor profile will be milder. Consider adding a bit more seasoning or sautéed onions to boost flavor.
Is it necessary to brown the meatballs before slow cooking?
It’s optional. Browning adds a richer, caramelized flavor and firmer exterior, but the slow cooker method ensures tender meatballs even without this step, saving time without sacrificing taste.
How thick should the gravy be?
This depends on your preference. The cream of mushroom soup and broth create a creamy base, but you can use the cornstarch slurry to thicken it to a luscious gravy consistency that clings nicely to the meatballs.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to brown meatballs if desired, then add the sauce and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes with a natural release for a faster version.
What can I serve if I want a low-carb option?
Serve the meatballs over cauliflower mash or steamed green vegetables to keep it low in carbs while still enjoying the creamy Salisbury steak experience.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe is a cherished classic made effortlessly special with slow cooking magic. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a dish to warm up chilly evenings, these meatballs deliver every time. Give it a try—you might soon find it on repeat in your kitchen just like I do!
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Creamy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Creamy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs combine tender, flavorful beef meatballs with a rich and savory mushroom gravy. Perfect for a comforting and hands-off meal, this recipe lets you prepare delicious meatballs with minimal effort using a slow cooker.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Gravy
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (for slurry, optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined to ensure the meatballs stay tender.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them in the bottom of a greased slow cooker, arranging them evenly.
- Make Gravy: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, onion powder, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are mostly covered. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Thicken Gravy (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken the gravy.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish the meatballs with fresh parsley and serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a complete and comforting meal.
- For extra flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker, though this step is optional.
- You can adjust the seasoning in the gravy to your preference by adding more Worcestershire sauce or ketchup.
