This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks dish features tender beef patties simmered in a rich gravy. It’s a warm and comforting meal that cooks while you’re busy with other things!
You can serve these steaks with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and trust me, the gravy is just too good to pass up. I always make extra for dipping! 😋
I love how easy it is to toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you at dinner time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef brings great flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too, though they might be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs add texture, but you can swap in crushed crackers or even oat flour if you’re gluten-free. Just keep an eye on moisture since these can change how the mixture binds.
Milk: Any milk works here, but if you’re dairy-free, try almond or oat milk. The liquid is essential for binding, so avoid skipping it!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option or to avoid preservatives, homemade cream sauce or a mixture of yogurt and mushroom stock can work.
Worcestershire Sauce: This gives a nice tang, but if you don’t have it, soy sauce or liquid aminos can be a great substitute. The taste will change slightly, but still delicious!
How Do I Get a Great Sear on My Patties?
Searing adds lots of flavors and a nice crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding the patties. A drop of water should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook patties in batches if needed!
- Let the patties be; only flip them once after 2-3 minutes. This helps form a nice crust.
- Even if you skip this step, the slow cooker will still provide delicious results, so don’t stress if you’re in a hurry.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Gravy:
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 large onion, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 20 minutes to prep and then you let it cook in the slow cooker. You can cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, making it perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined—you want to keep the meat tender. Now, shape the mixture into four oval patties.
2. Sear the Patties (Optional):
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re browned. This adds a nice flavor, but you can skip this step if you prefer a quicker process.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seared patties in your slow cooker. Then, sprinkle the sliced onions and sliced mushrooms over the top. It’s starting to smell good already!
4. Make the Gravy:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth until smooth. Pour this mixture over the patties in the slow cooker, making sure they are well covered to soak up all that flavor.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your Salisbury steaks are tender and cooked through, serve them with the tasty gravy over some mashed potatoes or rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey may be leaner, so it might not have the same richness. You can add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture to help keep the patties moist.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can make a quick substitution by combining 1 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and some seasonings. This will add a similar creaminess and flavor to your dish!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or warm them gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add in bell peppers, carrots, or even peas to the slow cooker along with the mushrooms and onions for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into similar sizes for even cooking!
