Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

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🥩 Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

  • Prep time: 20 minutes

  • Cook time: 4–5 hours (Low) or 2–3 hours (High)

  • Servings: 6 portions

Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 2 lbs Lean ground beef (90/10 is best to avoid excess grease)

  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs

  • 1 Large egg, lightly beaten

  • 1/4 cup Whole milk

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp Garlic powder

  • 1 tsp Onion powder

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Gravy & Veggies:

  • 2 cups Beef broth (low sodium recommended)

  • 1 packet Brown gravy mix (or Au Jus mix)

  • 1 tbsp Ketchup

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 2 cups Sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)

  • 1 Large onion, thinly sliced into rings

  • 2 tbsp Cornstarch + 2 tbsp Water (for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Form the Patties: In a large bowl, combine the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Mix gently—don’t overwork the meat or it will get tough. Form into 6 oval-shaped patties.

  2. The Pro Sear (Optional but Recommended): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for 2 minutes per side until browned. You aren’t cooking them through; you’re just locking in flavor and texture.

  3. Layer the Crockpot: Place the sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the beef patties on top of the vegetables.

  4. Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, gravy mix, ketchup, and Dijon mustard. Pour this over the patties.

  5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours.

  6. Thicken the Gravy: 30 minutes before serving, whisk the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir it gently into the liquid in the slow cooker. Cover and let it finish until the sauce is glossy and thick.

Notes & Tips

  • Don’t skip the sear: Searing creates the “Maillard reaction,” which adds a depth of savory flavor that a slow cooker alone can’t replicate.

  • Prevent “Greasy” Gravy: If you use higher-fat beef (like 80/20), you may want to skim the fat off the top of the liquid before adding the cornstarch slurry.

  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add bell peppers or a splash of red wine to the gravy for a more sophisticated profile.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Calories Protein Total Fat Carbs Sodium
385 kcal 32g 22g 14g 880mg

Benefits of This Dish

  • Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ground beef and pantry staples to feed a whole family.

  • High Protein: Excellent for muscle recovery and satiety.

  • Low Active Effort: Perfect for busy workdays; the machine does 90% of the work.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?

A: Yes! Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free crumbs or almond meal, and ensure your gravy packet and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free. Use cornstarch (which is naturally GF) to thicken.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead?

A: Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well, though the flavor will be milder. I recommend adding a bit more Worcestershire or a dash of soy sauce to boost the “umami.”

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This recipe also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

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