Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses frozen meatballs for quick and easy prep.
- Slow cooker does all the work—just dump and go!
- Rich, flavorful brown gravy made from simple ingredients.
- Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
- A family-friendly meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen meatballs (homestyle, Italian, or turkey)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the mixture over the meatballs and stir to coat.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and let cook for an additional 10 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Serve warm over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
- Add sliced mushrooms or onions for extra flavor.
- Swap Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce for a different twist.
- Use homemade meatballs if preferred—just brown them before adding to the slow cooker.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes! Just brown them in a skillet first to help them hold their shape.
What’s the best way to serve these meatballs?
They are best served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Can I cook this on HIGH instead of LOW?
Yes, you can cook on HIGH for about 3–4 hours, but LOW is recommended for the best texture.
How do I thicken the gravy?
Use a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers would be great additions.
Do I have to use beef broth?
Beef broth adds the best flavor, but you can use chicken or vegetable broth if needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything in the slow cooker insert the night before and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use gluten-free meatballs, gravy mix, and onion soup mix to make it gluten-free.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to fit all the ingredients.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be used in sandwiches, over pasta, or even in a meatball sub!
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are an easy, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort. Whether served over mashed potatoes or rice, these tender meatballs in rich gravy will become a family favorite. Try them today for a stress-free, delicious dinner!

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs (Frozen Meatballs)
- Author: Amy
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooke
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a simple, hearty, and delicious comfort food meal. Made with frozen meatballs and a rich brown gravy, this easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a satisfying dinner!
Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen meatballs (homestyle, Italian, or turkey)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.
- Make the Gravy:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the mixture over the meatballs and stir to coat.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours.
- Thicken the Gravy:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and let cook for an additional 10 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Serve:
- Serve warm over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Notes
- Meatball Variations: Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
- Extra Flavor: Add sliced mushrooms or onions.
- Sauce Swap: Use soy sauce instead of Worcestershire for a different twist.
- Homemade Meatballs: If using homemade, brown them in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker.