Crockpot  Steak Meatballs: The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs. This recipe combines tender, juicy meatballs with a rich, savory gravy sauce that’s cooked low and slow in your crockpot. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a meal that feels like a warm hug, this dish is destined to become a family favorite.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Salisbury steak crockpot recipes or you’re just looking for creative ways to use frozen meatballs, this dish is versatile, satisfying, and simple to prepare. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and you’ll have a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hands-Off Cooking: The crockpot does all the work, making this one of the easiest slow cooker Salisbury steak recipes ever.
2. Rich and Flavorful: The brown gravy made from beef broth, onions, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce is absolutely irresistible.
3. Family-Friendly: With its familiar flavors and hearty texture, this dish is a hit with kids and adults alike.
4. Fast Prep: Using frozen meatballs means you can have everything in the crockpot in under 10 minutes, making it one of the best easy crockpot dinners for busy days.

Ingredients for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need a few simple pantry staples and your trusty crockpot.

For the Meatballs:

• 1 bag frozen meatballs (about 2 pounds): Use beef or a beef/pork mix for the best flavor.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Optional, but adds great flavor to the dish.

For the Gravy Sauce:

• 2 cups beef broth: The base of the gravy. Use low-sodium if preferred.
• 1 packet brown gravy mix: Enhances the richness of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: For that classic Salisbury steak flavor.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: For a hint of freshness.
• Salt and black pepper to taste.

For Thickening the Gravy (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for a slurry): To thicken the gravy to your desired consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot

Spray your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or line it with a crockpot liner for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

1. Add the frozen meatballs to the bottom of the crockpot in an even layer.
2. Sprinkle the chopped onions and minced garlic over the meatballs.

Step 3: Make the Gravy Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, onion powder, and parsley until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture over the meatballs and onions, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

1. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors and evenly coat the meatballs with the gravy.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot and let it cook for another 20-30 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the meatballs before serving. Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, and enjoy!

Perfect Pairings for Salisbury Steak Meatballs

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a balanced and satisfying meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the rich, savory gravy.
• Egg Noodles: For a hearty, cozy meal, serve the meatballs over a bed of buttery noodles.
• Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots add color and freshness to the plate.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious gravy sauce.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs

1. Use High-Quality Meatballs: If you’re not using frozen meatballs, homemade meatballs with a mix of beef and pork will add even more flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Gravy Mix: The brown gravy mix adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with seasonings alone.
3. Keep It Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat ensures the meatballs absorb all the delicious flavors of the gravy.
4. Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, so it’s a great option for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

Variations

1. Cheesy Twist: Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes for a creamy, cheesy version.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the gravy sauce for a bit of heat.
3. Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or peas for added texture and nutrition.
4. Low-Carb Option: Serve the meatballs over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerate: Store the meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickens too much.
• Freeze: This dish freezes well! Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Why Crockpot Salisbury Steak Meatballs Are a Must-Try

This recipe takes everything you love about classic Salisbury steak and transforms it into bite-sized, meatball perfection. The gravy sauce is rich and indulgent, the frozen meatballs make it a breeze to prepare, and the crockpot ensures that every bite is infused with incredible flavor. Whether you’re whipping this up as an easy crockpot dinner on a busy weeknight or preparing it for a cozy family gathering, this dish never disappoints.