Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

Posted on February 5, 2026

DINNER

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

Introduction to Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore my Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Imagine coming home after a long day to the rich aroma of savory meatballs simmering away, ready to impress your loved ones. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is a quick solution for those hectic evenings. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

Let’s face it, life can get chaotic, and finding time to cook can feel like a juggling act. That’s where my Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs shine! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the magic. Plus, the taste? Oh, it’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds! You’ll savor every bite, and your family will love you for it.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating my beloved Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: The star of the show! Choose a lean blend for a juicy texture.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together, giving them a delightful texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and a hint of nuttiness to the meatballs.
Chopped parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
Egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape while cooking.
Garlic powder: A must for flavor! It infuses the meatballs with a warm, aromatic essence.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic and adds a subtle sweetness.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
Beef broth: The base for your savory gravy, adding richness and moisture.
Worcestershire sauce: A splash of this tangy sauce brings a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the gravy, giving it that luscious consistency.
Water: Just a little to create the cornstarch slurry for thickening.

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to amp up the flavor, sauté some onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that your family will love.

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything together until well combined. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure all the flavors meld together. Just remember, don’t overmix, or your meatballs might turn out tough!

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Now it’s time to shape the mixture into meatballs. I usually aim for about one inch in diameter.

To keep them uniform, I like to use a small ice cream scoop. This way, every meatball cooks evenly. Plus, it saves time! Place the formed meatballs on a plate as you go.

Step 3: Place Meatballs in the Slow Cooker

Once your meatballs are ready, it’s time to transfer them to the slow cooker.

Arrange them in a single layer if possible. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all that delicious gravy. Don’t worry if they touch a little; they’ll still turn out great!

Step 4: Prepare the Gravy

In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.

This combination is the secret to a rich, savory gravy. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker, making sure they’re well covered. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!

Step 5: Slow Cook the Meatballs

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. You can choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

If you’re home, it’s a good idea to check on them halfway through. Just give them a gentle stir to ensure they’re soaking up all that gravy goodness.

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy

Once the meatballs are cooked through, it’s time to thicken that luscious gravy.

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes. This will give you that perfect, velvety gravy that clings to the meatballs.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Now for the best part—serving! I love to serve my Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice.

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Your family will be raving about this meal, and you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar!

Tips for Success

Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess fat.
Don’t skip the breadcrumbs; they keep the meatballs tender.
Mix the meatball ingredients gently to avoid tough meatballs.
Check the meatballs halfway through cooking for even flavor absorption.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.

Equipment Needed

Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven can work too.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients. Any large bowl will do.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Ice Cream Scoop: Helpful for forming uniform meatballs, but your hands work just fine!
Whisk: Great for mixing the cornstarch slurry, though a fork will suffice.

Variations of Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meat alternatives or lentils mixed with breadcrumbs and spices for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy twist.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.
Cheesy Surprise: Incorporate small cubes of mozzarella cheese into the meatballs for a gooey, cheesy center.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

Mashed Potatoes: Serve the meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy.
Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice makes a great base for the savory meatballs.
Steamed Vegetables: Pair with green beans or broccoli for a colorful, nutritious side.
Red Wine: A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a vibrant finish.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, frozen meatballs can be a lifesaver. Just add them directly to the slow cooker with the gravy ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on them.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal. They taste just as good the next day!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta. Add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just form the meatballs and cook them in the slow cooker when you’re ready for a delicious meal.

Final Thoughts

Cooking is more than just a necessity; it’s a way to show love and care for those we cherish. My Slow Cooker Salisbury Meatballs embody that spirit, transforming simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal. The joy of coming home to a kitchen filled with savory aromas is unmatched. Plus, knowing that I can whip up a comforting dish with minimal effort makes my busy days feel a little lighter. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Here’s to delicious meals and cherished moments with family!