Description
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Ingredients
For the patties:
2 lbs ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
For the gravy:
2 cups beef broth
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 packet (1 oz) brown gravy mix
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
Directions
Make the Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form into 6-8 oval patties.
Sear the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the patties on both sides (about 2 minutes per side). Transfer to the slow cooker.
Prepare the Gravy: In a bowl, mix beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, gravy mix, Worcestershire sauce, and mushrooms (if using). Pour the gravy mixture over the patties in the slow cooker.
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the patties are cooked through and tender.
Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, and spoon the delicious gravy on top!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Mix Thoroughly: In your large bowl, combine all patty ingredients. Use your hands to mix just until incorporated—overmixing can lead to tough patties.
2. Form Patties: Divide the mixture and shape into 6-8 oval patties, about 3/4-inch thick. Create a slight indentation in the center of each with your thumb to prevent doming.
3. Sear for Flavor: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear patties for 2-3 minutes per side until a rich brown crust forms. This step is crucial for depth of flavor.
4. Layer in Slow Cooker: Transfer seared patties to the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer.
5. Whisk Gravy: In a separate bowl, whisk the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, dry gravy mix, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Stir in mushrooms.
6. Cook Low and Slow: Pour gravy evenly over patties. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs perfectly with classic comfort sides. Serve the steaks and rich gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed rice. For a lighter touch, try cauliflower mash. Add a pop of color and nutrition with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
How-to Summary
Combine beef patty ingredients, form into ovals, and sear. Transfer to a slow cooker, cover with a whisked gravy of broth, soup, gravy mix, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours. Serve over your favorite starch with plenty of gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without searing the patties first?
Yes, but searing adds significant flavor through the Maillard reaction. If skipping, add 30 minutes to the cook time.
What can I use instead of canned cream of mushroom soup?
Make a simple roux: melt 3 tbsp butter, whisk in 3 tbsp flour, cook 1 minute, then slowly whisk in 1 cup beef broth and 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms until thickened.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the seared patties and gravy in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, place the insert in the base and cook, adding 30-60 extra minutes.
How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir into the slow cooker, set to HIGH, and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Is it possible to overcook the patties?
While forgiving, cooking beyond 7 hours on LOW can cause the patties to become overly soft and start to break down. Adhere to the recommended time range.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the beef, which develops too much gluten and results in dense, rubbery patties.
- Skipping the sear, which sacrifices the deep, savory flavor foundation.
- Using lean ground beef (like 90/10), which can dry out. An 80/20 blend yields juicier results.
- Stirring the patties during cooking. Let them simmer undisturbed to maintain their shape.
- Adding sour cream or dairy to the gravy at the beginning, as it can curdle. Stir in at the very end if desired.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort meal, delivering tender, flavorful patties smothered in a rich, savory gravy. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a satisfying, home-cooked dinner with minimal active effort. It’s a timeless recipe that promises to become a reliable favorite in your weekly rotation.