This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is a hearty dish that features tender beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom gravy. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making dinner easy-peasy. I love serving mine over fluffy mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef keeps the patties juicy. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too, though the flavor will be milder. When I use turkey, I like adding a little extra seasoning.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the patties. You can use panko for extra crunch or even crushed crackers if you’re out. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions!
Onions: The recipe calls for both chopped and sliced onions. Yellow onions are my favorite for their sweet flavor. If you’re short on fresh onions, onion powder can work in a pinch.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives the dish a creamy base. If you can find it, a homemade version or a can of cream of chicken soup is a good substitute. For a dairy-free version, look for dairy-free cream soups.
Brown Gravy Mix: You can use a homemade gravy instead or skip this and use more beef broth for a lighter sauce. I sometimes add a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Salisbury Steaks Are Deliciously Tender?
To get tender Salisbury steaks, avoid overmixing the beef mixture. Gently combine your ingredients just until they’re mixed. Overworking the meat can lead to tough patties.
- Shape the patties gently into ovals and make them slightly thicker in the middle to help them cook evenly.
- If you can, browning the patties in a skillet adds great flavor but isn’t mandatory. Just remember to really watch that they don’t stick!
Let the slow cooker do its magic as it gradually tenderizes the patties with low, slow heat. It transforms everyday ingredients into a deliciously comforting meal!
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Gravy:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) brown gravy mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare, with an additional cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Just prepare your ingredients, let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy the comforting aroma filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Patties:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything until just mixed. Be careful not to overwork the meat; you want it to stay tender!
2. Shape and Brown the Patties:
Shape the meat mixture into 4 oval patties. If you like, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step adds a nice extra flavor to your dish, but you can skip it if you’re short on time!
3. Prepare the Gravy in the Slow Cooker:
In the slow cooker, add the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined. This will be the delicious gravy that coats your Salisbury steaks.
4. Combine Patties and Vegetables:
Carefully place the browned patties into the slow cooker, and spoon some of the gravy over the top. Then, scatter the sliced mushrooms and onion over the patties to add more flavor and texture.
5. Slow Cook the Dish:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. The patties should be cooked through and tender when they’re done.
6. Finishing Touches:
When it’s time to serve, give the gravy a quick stir and taste it. If needed, adjust the seasoning to your liking. Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, topped with the mushroom and onion gravy, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a delightful touch!
Enjoy your hearty Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just keep in mind that turkey may have a milder flavor, so you might want to add a little extra seasoning. Additionally, since turkey is leaner, it could benefit from a bit of olive oil or additional moisture to prevent dryness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this Salisbury Steaks recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, and ensure that your gravy mix and cream of mushroom soup are labeled gluten-free. Many brands offer great alternatives that work just as well!
Can I Prepare the Patties in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to avoid any contamination. If you want to freeze them, wrap each patty individually and place them in an airtight container for up to 3 months—thaw in the fridge before cooking.
What Can I Serve with Salisbury Steaks?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice to soak up the gravy. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also make great sides to balance the meal!
