Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak: The Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re looking for a classic comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further than this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak! Tender beef patties topped with rich mushroom gravy create a hearty meal that the whole family will adore. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside sautéed asparagus, and get ready for the rave reviews!
I’m all about my slow cooker during the chilly months, especially on those busy weeknights when we’re racing home from school and activities. Who wants to deal with a complicated dinner after a long day? Not me! This slow cooker salisbury steak is the perfect crowd-pleaser, waiting for you when you’re ready to eat. With just a few simple ingredients, this classic dish never goes out of style!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup prepared beef gravy
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Step 1: Form the Patties
Start by mixing the ground beef with breadcrumbs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into patties that are about 1 inch thick.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the patties for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they have a nice golden crust. This step adds a ton of flavor, so don’t skip it!
Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker
Place the browned patties into the slow cooker. Add the sliced mushrooms and onions. Pour the prepared beef gravy and beef broth over everything.
Step 4: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The longer, the better, as the flavors meld beautifully!
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Once the cooking time is up, remove the patties and set them aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the gravy in the slow cooker and let it cook on high for an additional 15 minutes to thicken.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Return the patties to the slow cooker, spoon the thickened gravy over them, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Dish
- Don’t Skimp on Browning: Browning the patties is key to developing flavor. Trust me, it makes a big difference!
- Use Lean Ground Beef: I recommend using 90% lean ground beef. Going any leaner might result in dry patties.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the meat mixture and form the patties the night before. Just brown them in the morning and toss them in the slow cooker.
- Store-Bought Gravy: I love using pre-packaged beef gravy for convenience, but feel free to make your own if you prefer!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put raw ground beef in a slow cooker?
Yes, but I don’t recommend it for this recipe. Searing the patties first helps them hold together and adds flavor.
What cut of meat is salisbury steak?
Salisbury steak isn’t actually steak; it’s made from ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings.
Flavor Variations
This recipe is fantastic as-is, but feel free to customize it to suit your tastes!
- Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey and use turkey gravy for a lighter option.
- Seasonings: Amp up the flavor by adding minced onion, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, or smoked paprika.
- Vegetables: Add more veggies like carrots or potatoes for extra heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
My favorite way to enjoy this slow cooker salisbury steak is over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, but it also pairs wonderfully with rice or egg noodles. No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to become a family favorite—my kids request it weekly!
So, gather your ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work. You’re going to love how simple and satisfying this meal is! 🍽️✨
