Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Published: September 23, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps and the slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you can have dinner ready with minimal effort.
Delicious Flavor: This recipe features a rich gravy made from beef broth and seasonings, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair these meatballs with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty dish, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Freezer-Friendly: You can easily store any leftovers in the freezer for a quick meal later on.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld together while you go about your day.
Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for combining ingredients smoothly before adding them to the slow cooker.
Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your sauces are well-blended without lumps for a perfect consistency.

Ingredients

This easy and comforting dish uses frozen meatballs combined with savory beef broth and a rich gravy mix to create a flavorful Salisbury steak-inspired meal. The slow cooker does all the work, making this a perfect hands-off dinner option.

For the Meatballs

1 bag (26 oz) frozen meatballs (about 30-35 meatballs)

For the Gravy

2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth (see notes)
1 packet brown gravy mix
1 packet onion soup mix
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For Thickening

2 tablespoons cornstarch (see notes)
2 tablespoons cold water

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. Ensure they are evenly distributed so they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This mixture will become your flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure all meatballs are coated in the sauce.

Step 4: Cooking Time

Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and tender. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks!

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir this slurry into the slow cooker to thicken your gravy.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Once thickened, serve these delicious meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your comforting meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Serving Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit your taste. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it versatile for any dinner table.

Over Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for the savory meatballs and gravy, soaking up all the flavors.

With Rice

Fluffy white or brown rice is an excellent option for serving. It balances the richness of the gravy and complements the dish well.

On a Bed of Noodles

Serve the meatballs over egg noodles for a comforting twist. The noodles will absorb the delicious gravy, enhancing every bite.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

Fresh steamed vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal. Broccoli or green beans work particularly well alongside this hearty dish.

Garnished with Fresh Parsley

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness. It brightens up the dish beautifully.

In a Sub Sandwich

For a fun twist, serve meatballs in a sub roll, topped with cheese and extra gravy. This makes for a hearty sandwich option that’s easy to enjoy on the go.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs can elevate this already delightful dish. Here are some tips to make your meal even better:

Use Quality Broth: Opt for reduced-sodium beef broth for better flavor control without excess salt.
Mix Well: Ensure you whisk together the gravy mix and broth thoroughly to avoid lumps in your sauce.
Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to add more spices like garlic powder or pepper to enhance the flavor according to your preference.
Thicken Properly: Make sure to stir in the cornstarch slurry well before serving; it helps achieve that perfect gravy consistency.
Cook Low and Slow: Keep the slow cooker on low for optimal tenderness; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve immediately after cooking while everything is warm and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra gravy, adding texture and flavor.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch, balancing out the rich meatball dish nicely.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes add a crispy element that contrasts wonderfully with tender meatballs.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob offers a delightful burst of sweetness that complements savory flavors.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crisp component with its crunchy lettuce and creamy dressing.
Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds give a nutty crunch that pairs well with meaty dishes like these meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

Skipping the Broth: Not using enough beef broth can lead to dry meatballs. Always use the specified amount to keep them moist and flavorful.
Neglecting the Gravy Mix: Using a low-quality gravy mix can affect the taste of the dish. Opt for a good-quality brand for the best results.
Overcooking: Cooking for too long can cause the meatballs to become tough. Stick to the recommended cooking time for tender meatballs.
Not Thickening the Gravy: Forgetting to add the cornstarch slurry may leave you with a watery sauce. Remember to stir it in about 30 minutes before serving.
Ignoring Sides: Serving without sides can make for an unbalanced meal. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables for a complete dinner.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer meatballs and gravy to a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place meatballs and gravy in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are deliciously seasoned meatballs cooked in a savory gravy made with beef broth and seasonings, perfect for an easy dinner.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes, you can absolutely use homemade meatballs if you prefer! Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs?

Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers into the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free brown gravy mix and onion soup mix to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

How long does it take to cook Frozen Meatballs in the slow cooker?

Cooking frozen meatballs typically takes about 5-6 hours on low heat in your slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs combine convenience with rich flavors, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. This versatile dish allows you to customize it with different sides or even additional veggies, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your table. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card