This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is comfort food at its best! Juicy beef patties are smothered in a rich and tasty mushroom gravy, making every bite a delight.
When I make this, my kitchen smells amazing, and I can’t wait to dig in. Serve it over mashed potatoes or rice for a cozy meal everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds flavor and structure to the patties. For a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian twist.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the patties. If you’re gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. I prefer using Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce brings a depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work as a substitution, though they might alter the taste slightly.
Onion Soup Mix: This mixes well with beef broth for a robust flavor. If you’re looking for a homemade version, blend dried onion flakes, beef bouillon, and spices like garlic powder for a quick alternative.
Mushrooms: They add a nice texture and earthy flavor. Swap them with other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini if you want a different twist.
How Do I Brown the Patties Perfectly?
Browning the patties is key for flavor. Start with a medium-high heat and ensure your skillet is hot before adding oil. Here’s how to do it right:
- Shape the beef mixture into oval patties, about 1/2-inch thick.
- Add olive oil to the skillet and allow it to heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them.
- Flip the patties and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until a nice brown crust forms.
This process seals in the juices and enhances the flavor, so don’t rush it!
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
For the Gravy:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 packet onion soup mix (approximately 1 ounce)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and then cooks in your slow cooker for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a simple and hands-off way to enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything until well combined. Shape the mixture into four oval patties.
2. Brown the Patties:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the skillet and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Once nicely browned, transfer them to your slow cooker to get them ready for the gravy.
3. Make the Gravy:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Then, pour in the beef broth and add the onion soup mix, stirring everything together to mix well. This flavorful broth will create a delicious sauce for your steaks!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the broth mixture over the browned patties in the slow cooker. Cover the pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is cooked through and tender.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch with the water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker. Cover again and let the sauce thicken up a bit while it finishes cooking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, serve your Salisbury steaks hot with the thickened gravy. They’re fantastic alongside mashed potatoes or cooked rice to soak up all that tasty sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like a pop of color!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so consider adding a splash more broth or a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the patties moist.
What Can I Use in Place of Onion Soup Mix?
If you don’t have onion soup mix on hand, you can easily make your own! Combine 1 tablespoon of dried onion flakes, 1 teaspoon of beef bouillon granules, and a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a tasty alternative.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to label your container with the date. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
