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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy recipe features juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy mushroom gravy. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers classic comfort food flavors with minimal effort. Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, and leftovers, this dish satisfies with hearty texture and savory depth.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb (450g) 80/20 Ground Beef
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Mushroom Gravy

  • 8 oz (225g) fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups beef broth (can use low sodium)
  • 1/3 cup sour cream or cream cheese
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch (gluten-free option)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly brown the meatballs on all sides. This step seals in juices and adds rich flavor but can be skipped to save time.
  3. Make the Mushroom Gravy Base: In the same skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms until tender. Add the beef broth, sour cream or cream cheese, and flour or cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to avoid lumps. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Combine and Slow Cook: Place the browned meatballs into the slow cooker and pour the mushroom gravy over them. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
  5. Serve: Once cooked, gently stir to fully coat the meatballs in gravy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
  • Browning the meatballs adds extra depth of flavor.
  • Cook low and slow to break down collagen for tender meatballs.
  • Mix flour or cornstarch with cold water before adding to gravy to prevent lumps.
  • Use fresh mushrooms for a richer, more flavorful gravy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Salisbury steak, meatballs, mushroom gravy, slow cooker, comfort food, easy recipe, family dinner, meal prep