This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak makes dinner a breeze! Juicy beef patties are smothered in a tasty mushroom gravy that pairs so well with mashed potatoes or rice. Yum!
I love how the slow cooker does all the work while I relax. Just toss everything in, and hours later, you have a warm, comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for the best flavor without too much grease. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well, although they may need a bit more seasoning to enhance flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the patties. You can substitute with crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. I’ve also used panko for a crunchier texture!
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you have fresh garlic, feel free to use 1 clove, minced, instead. I find fresh garlic really boosts the taste.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you want a homemade touch, you can make your own sauce using sautéed mushrooms and a roux. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream with sautéed mushrooms.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over seasoning. Vegetable broth is a great alternative if you’d like a lighter flavor.
How Do You Achieve a Perfect Sear on Your Patties?
Getting that perfect sear on the patties is key to locking in flavor. Here’s how to do it!
- Start with a hot skillet! Preheat until it’s hot but not smoking.
- Add just a bit of olive oil to coat the bottom. Swirl it around to ensure even coverage.
- Place the patties without overcrowding; this prevents steaming. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
- Don’t flip too soon! Let them sit until they release naturally from the pan.
With these tips, your slow cooker Salisbury steaks will be full of rich flavors and perfect texture. Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
For the Gravy:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 can (7 oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time. After that, you’ll let the dish cook in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a busy day—just prepare it in the morning, and enjoy a delicious dinner later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salisbury Steaks:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and some salt and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Then, shape this mixture into 4 oval patties. They’re going to be tasty!
2. Brown the Patties:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently place the patties in the skillet and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely browned. This step adds flavor! After browning, carefully transfer the patties to the slow cooker.
3. Make the Gravy:
Using the same skillet, pour in the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, sliced onions, and sliced mushrooms. Give it a good stir to mix everything together, and bring it to a simmer for about 2 minutes. Once it’s warmed up and mixed, you’re ready for the next step!
4. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the gravy mixture over the browned patties in the slow cooker. Make sure the patties are well covered with the delicious gravy. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
5. Cook and Enjoy:
Now, you can set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. This is where the magic happens! When the cooking time is up, check to make sure the patties are cooked through and tender. Before serving, taste the gravy and add more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve:
Serve your Salisbury steaks over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, and sprinkle with some fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color. Enjoy your cozy, homemade meal!
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef Instead of Regular Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef, but keep in mind that it may result in slightly drier patties. To combat this, you can add a tablespoon of ketchup or mustard to the meat mixture to help maintain moisture.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, you can use a homemade cream of mushroom substitute made from sautéed mushrooms blended with a bit of milk and flour to thicken, or even swap in a can of cream of chicken soup.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep the gravy nice and moist.
Can I Make These Salisbury Steaks in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties a day ahead! Just shape them, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, follow the same instructions for browning them and cooking in the slow cooker.
