Few dishes embody comfort food as perfectly as Salisbury steak. This hearty, flavorful meal features juicy beef patties simmered in a rich, savory onion and mushroom gravy, creating a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak recipe transforms simple ingredients into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth dish. The seasoned beef patties are first seared to lock in their juices, then slow-cooked in a flavorful gravy made from beef broth, onions, and mushrooms. The result? A meal that’s full of depth, warmth, and classic comfort.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Plus, the gravy thickens beautifully, ensuring every bite is rich and indulgent.
If you’re looking for an easy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, let’s dive into this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Effortless Slow Cooker Meal – Just sear, assemble, and let the slow cooker do the rest!
✔ Rich and Flavorful Gravy – A beefy, savory sauce that complements the patties perfectly.
✔ Juicy and Tender Patties – Cooking low and slow ensures soft, flavorful beef.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – It stores well and tastes even better the next day!
✔ Pairs with Anything – Serve with mashed potatoes, noodles, or even roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup minced onion
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
For the Gravy:
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 6 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 brown gravy mix packet
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, minced onion, breadcrumbs, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated but don’t overwork the meat, as it can make the patties tough.
- Shape into patties that are about ¾ inch thick.
Step 2: Layer the Onions and Mushrooms
- Spread the sliced onions and mushrooms evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 3: Sear the Patties (Optional but Recommended)
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the patties for 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a nice golden-brown crust.
- This step enhances flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
- Place the seared patties on top of the onions and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
- In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, gravy mix, ketchup (if using), and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Pour this mixture over the patties, onions, and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Set it to low heat and cook for 5 hours.
- This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the patties tender and juicy.
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy
- After 5 hours, carefully remove the patties and set them aside.
- Turn the slow cooker to high heat.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Let it cook for 5-10 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Coat and Serve
- Return the patties to the slow cooker, ensuring they’re well-coated in the gravy.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
Cooking Tips for the Best Salisbury Steak
✔ Don’t Skip Searing – Browning the patties before slow cooking deepens the flavor and improves texture.
✔ Adjust the Seasoning – Taste the gravy and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
✔ Make it Creamy – Add ¼ cup of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier gravy.
✔ Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh onions and mushrooms give the best flavor, but canned mushrooms work in a pinch.
✔ Thicker Gravy? – If you prefer a thicker consistency, use an extra tablespoon of cornstarch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak with these delicious sides:
- Mashed Potatoes – The best way to soak up the rich gravy.
- Buttered Egg Noodles – Adds a comforting texture.
- Steamed Rice – A simple yet satisfying pairing.
- Roasted Vegetables – Green beans, carrots, or asparagus for a balanced meal.
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for mopping up the extra gravy!
FAQs About Salisbury Steak
1. Can I make this with ground turkey?
Yes! Ground turkey works well, but you may need to add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs for better texture.
2. Can I use store-bought gravy instead of the mix?
Absolutely! You can substitute with 1 ½ cups of prepared brown gravy.
3. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes! You can cook it on high for 3 hours, but low heat is recommended for the most tender patties.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
5. Can I freeze Salisbury steak?
Yes! Freeze the cooked patties and gravy in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fats | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is the ultimate comfort food—easy to prepare, full of rich, beefy flavors, and perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal effort, you’ll get a dish that’s tender, juicy, and smothered in savory mushroom gravy.
Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this classic meal will warm your heart and fill your belly. Try it once, and it’ll become a regular favorite in your home!