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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Recipe

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Recipe

5.1 from 8 reviews

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak recipe features tender, flavorful beef patties cooked low and slow in a rich mushroom gravy. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it uses simple pantry staples and requires minimal hands-on time. Serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables for a classic meal bursting with homestyle goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Patties

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Gravy

  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry)

Optional Garnish

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, finely chopped onion, bread crumbs, milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to ensure everything is evenly distributed, being careful not to overmix which can make the meat dense.
  2. Adjust seasoning: Taste a small portion of the mixture by cooking it in a skillet, and adjust salt or seasonings as needed for perfect flavor.
  3. Form patties: Shape the meat mixture into 4 to 6 patties, each about 1-inch thick, ensuring they hold together well.
  4. Prepare slow cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Arrange patties: Place the formed patties in the slow cooker, making sure not to overcrowd. If necessary, cook in batches.
  6. Make gravy mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce until smooth.
  7. Add gravy: Pour the soup mixture over the patties in the slow cooker, ensuring they are mostly submerged for even cooking and flavor infusion.
  8. Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the internal temperature of the patties reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
  9. Prepare flour slurry: About 30 minutes before cooking ends, mix the all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry without lumps.
  10. Remove patties: Take the Salisbury steaks out of the slow cooker and set them aside on a warm plate.
  11. Separate gravy: Pour the cooking liquid into a separate bowl, skim off any excess grease or fat floating on top for a cleaner sauce.
  12. Thicken gravy: Slowly whisk the flour slurry into the defatted gravy, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Return this mixture to the slow cooker and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to desired consistency.
  13. Combine and rest: Return the Salisbury steaks to the thickened gravy in the slow cooker, coating them well. Let them sit for a few minutes so the flavors marry and the steaks stay tender.
  14. Serve: Serve the Salisbury steak hot, generously topped with mushroom gravy. Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
  15. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a grind of black pepper on top before serving for added color and flavor.

Notes

  • For best texture, do not overmix the ground beef mixture as it can make the patties tough.
  • Adjust seasoning after mixing and before forming patties by cooking a small test piece.
  • If your slow cooker runs hot, check patties early to prevent overcooking.
  • You can substitute the condensed cream of mushroom soup with homemade mushroom gravy for a fresher taste.
  • Leftover Salisbury steak reheats well and makes great sandwiches.
  • Use gluten-free bread crumbs and soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option, but cooking times may vary.

Nutrition

Keywords: Salisbury steak, slow cooker recipes, beef patties, mushroom gravy, comfort food, easy dinner