Ever have one of those nights when you crave something hearty, comforting, and completely fuss-free? That’s exactly where these Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs come in. This slow cooker favorite is everything we love about classic comfort food—tender meatballs, rich mushroom gravy, and the kind of flavor that tastes like home.
Made with pantry staples like ground beef, onion soup mix, and brown gravy, this recipe is a go-to for easy weeknight meals or make-ahead dinners. It’s one of those dishes that feels like it took hours, but your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you get on with your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for recipes that check all the right boxes: easy, comforting, and guaranteed to please the whole family. That’s exactly why these Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a winner. They bring together the nostalgic flavor of Salisbury steak with the simplicity of a slow cooker meal—no oven, no stress, just satisfying, home-cooked goodness.
Here’s what makes this dish a standout:
- Effortless Prep: No need to brown the meatballs first. Just mix, roll, and let the crockpot do the rest.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich mushroom and onion gravy slowly simmers the meatballs to tender perfection.
- Weeknight Friendly: Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe fits seamlessly into your schedule.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in ground turkey, skip the mushrooms, or tweak the seasoning to match your taste.
Ingredients for Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Before jumping into the process, let’s take a moment to go over the ingredients. What I love most about this recipe is that it uses simple pantry staples—no fancy shopping list required. These ingredients come together to create rich, tender meatballs simmered in a savory gravy that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef – I recommend using 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder to help the meatballs hold their shape.
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs – Adds structure without drying things out.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Gives that signature Salisbury steak depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A touch of savory flavor in every bite.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Balances the meatiness with subtle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t skip the seasoning!
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional) – For a pop of freshness.
For the Gravy:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy base with earthy flavor.
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) brown gravy mix – Adds richness and depth with minimal effort.
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) dry onion soup mix – Boosts that savory, slow-cooked taste.
- 1 ½ cups water or beef broth – Helps thin out the gravy and enhances flavor.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional) – Perfect for mushroom lovers; adds texture and umami.
Ingredient Tips:
- Make it lighter: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
- No breadcrumbs? Crushed crackers or rolled oats can step in as a substitute.
- Want a smoother gravy? Skip the mushrooms or finely chop them before adding.
How To Make Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs
One of the best things about this recipe is how little effort it takes to pull off a dinner that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day. These slow cooker Salisbury steak meatballs come together in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Here’s how to make it happen:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Egg
- Breadcrumbs
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt, pepper, and parsley (if using)
Use clean hands or a fork to gently mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat—this helps keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1 ½-inch balls (about the size of a golf ball). You should get roughly 18–20 meatballs, depending on size.
Pro Tip: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking as you roll. If you’re prepping ahead, you can refrigerate the meatballs for up to 24 hours before cooking.
3. Prepare the Gravy Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Brown gravy mix
- Dry onion soup mix
- Water or beef broth
This creates that rich, savory gravy that will slow-cook into perfection with the meatballs.
4. Layer Everything in the Crockpot
- If using mushrooms, scatter them across the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the uncooked meatballs in a single layer or gently stack them if needed.
- Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the top, making sure all meatballs are coated.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Give the meatballs a gentle stir before serving to evenly coat them in the rich gravy. They’re delicious over:
- Mashed potatoes
- Egg noodles
- Steamed rice
- Or even tucked into a soft sub roll for a cozy meatball sandwich
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about this Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re working with dietary preferences, pantry limitations, or just craving something a little different, you’ve got options—and good ones. Here’s how you can tweak the recipe without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ingredient Swaps
- Ground Beef Alternatives:
Swap with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner, lighter version. You’ll enjoy juicy, flavorful meatballs with less fat and fewer calories. - Breadcrumbs:
Out of breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even panko. If you’re gluten-free, opt for certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. - Cream of Mushroom Soup:
Not a fan of mushrooms? Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup will do the trick. You’ll still get a creamy, savory gravy without the mushroom flavor. - Beef Broth or Water:
If you’re looking for deeper flavor, use low-sodium beef broth instead of water in the gravy mix. For a vegetarian twist (using plant-based meatballs), vegetable broth works too.
Flavor Enhancers
- Add Onions or Garlic:
For extra depth, sauté finely chopped onions or garlic and stir them into the meat mixture or gravy. - Make It Spicy:
A dash of crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce adds a subtle kick without overpowering the comforting flavors. - Herb It Up:
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf tossed into the slow cooker during cooking can add a subtle, aromatic twist.
Creative Twists
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs:
For an indulgent variation, press a small cube of mozzarella into each meatball before cooking. The result? A gooey, cheesy center that surprises and delights. - Vegetarian Version:
Use plant-based ground meat alternatives and vegetarian gravy packets. Skip the Worcestershire sauce (or use a vegan version), and enjoy a comforting meatless meal. - Mini Meatballs for Appetizers:
Roll the meat mixture into bite-sized portions for party-style meatballs. Serve with toothpicks and a side of warm gravy for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
One of the best perks of this Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe—besides how incredibly tasty it is—is how well it stores and reheats. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers for another night, these meatballs hold up beautifully.
Here’s everything you need to know to keep them fresh and flavorful:
How to Store
- In the Refrigerator:
Allow the meatballs to cool down fully, then place them into a sealed, airtight container for storage. Store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the gravy and meatballs together for the best flavor. - In the Freezer:
These meatballs are freezer-friendly and perfect for batch cooking.- Place cooled meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Store flat to save space and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave:
Transfer a serving of meatballs with gravy into a microwave-safe container. Cover it loosely, then warm on medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring at the halfway point. - Stovetop:
Warm the meatballs slowly in a saucepan over medium-low heat. If the gravy has become too thick, stir in a bit of beef broth or water to loosen it. - From Frozen:
Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat as above, or warm them straight from frozen on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
What to Serve with Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs
These Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs are rich, savory, and dripping with homemade-style gravy—so naturally, they’re just begging for the perfect side dish to soak it all up. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual get-together, the right sides can turn this already comforting dish into a full-on family favorite.
Here are a few tasty suggestions to complete your meal:
Classic Comfort Pairings
- Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a must with this kind of gravy. The smooth texture and buttery flavor balance perfectly with the hearty meatballs. - Egg Noodles
Wide egg noodles make for a nostalgic, old-school pairing. They’re quick to prepare and hold onto the gravy like a dream. - Steamed Rice
White, brown, or jasmine rice all work beautifully. It’s a simple, no-fuss option that lets the meatballs shine.
Vegetable Sides for Balance
- Green Beans (Steamed or Sautéed)
Add some crunch and freshness to your plate with green beans tossed in garlic butter or simply steamed with a pinch of salt. - Roasted Carrots
A touch of sweetness from oven-roasted carrots complements the savory, peppery notes in the meatballs and gravy. - Peas or Corn
Quick, easy, and always a hit with kids, especially when mixed right into the gravy.
Lighter Alternatives
- Cauliflower Mash
A low-carb take on mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash gives you the creamy texture with a healthier twist. - Zucchini Noodles
For a lighter, veggie-forward plate, serve the meatballs over spiralized zucchini sautéed with olive oil and garlic.
Bread Options
- Buttered Dinner Rolls
Perfect for sopping up every last drop of that savory mushroom gravy. - Garlic Toast
Adds a crispy, bold bite that pairs wonderfully with slow-cooked meatballs.
More Summer Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
After enjoying a hearty meal like Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs, it’s only natural to crave something sweet to end on a high note. And when the weather’s warm, the last thing you want is to turn on the oven. That’s where easy, refreshing summer desserts come in—simple to make, crowd-pleasing, and ideal for cookouts, picnics, or just treating yourself at home.
Here are a few tried-and-true favorites that pair beautifully with a comfort-food dinner:
No-Bake & Chilled Treats
- Strawberry Icebox Pie
Light, creamy, and bursting with fresh berry flavor. It’s a cool, make-ahead dessert that’s always a hit. - Lemonade Cream Cheese Bars
Tangy, sweet, and perfectly chilled. These bars have a zesty punch that balances out richer mains like meatballs and gravy. - Raspberry Pretzel Salad
Sweet and salty in the best way. This layered dessert features a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy middle, and fruity top—great for summer potlucks.
Fruity Favorites
- Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream
A quick grill transforms ripe peaches into caramelized perfection. Serve with a scoop of ice cream for an easy, elegant dessert. - Mixed Berry Shortcake
Light sponge cake, juicy berries, and whipped cream—this one screams summer and is great for using up seasonal fruit.
Make-Ahead Classics
- No-Bake Cheesecake Cups
Individual-sized cheesecakes are great for parties and can be topped with anything from fresh fruit to crushed cookies. - Peach Cobbler Trifle
Layers of soft peaches, pound cake, and whipped cream come together in one dreamy dessert. Assemble the night before and chill until ready to serve.
FAQs
You’ve got questions, and I’ve got answers! Whether you’re trying Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs for the first time or perfecting a beloved classic, these common questions will steer you in the right direction with ease and confidence.
What are the Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs made of?
These slow-cooked meatballs are made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and a blend of seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce for a rich, savory flavor. The magic happens in the crockpot, where they simmer in a creamy mushroom and onion gravy made from pantry staples like cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, and onion soup mix.
Is Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs good?
Absolutely—it’s more than good. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even make-ahead freezer meals. The meatballs are incredibly tender, and the gravy is rich and flavorful, making this dish a reliable favorite for anyone who loves hearty, slow cooker comfort food.
What are the three types of Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
There are a few tasty variations you can try based on your needs and preferences:
- Classic Beef – Traditional and flavorful, made with ground beef and a rich mushroom-onion gravy.
- Turkey or Chicken – A leaner, lighter twist that still delivers on taste and tenderness.
- Vegetarian Version – Made with plant-based meat alternatives and vegetarian gravy for a comforting meatless meal.
Each version brings something different to the table, but all are packed with the savory goodness that defines Salisbury steak.
What do you need for Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs?
Here’s your quick checklist for success:
- Ground beef (or preferred protein)
- Breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings for the meatballs
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Brown gravy mix and onion soup mix
- Beef broth or water
- Optional add-ins like mushrooms or fresh herbs
- A crockpot or slow cooker to bring it all together