This Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is a warm, comforting dish that features tender beef patties swimming in rich, flavorful gravy. Perfect for busy days!
I love how simple it is to toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Just serve it with mashed potatoes or rice, and you’ll have a cozy dinner ready to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but they might not be as flavorful. Just add a little extra seasoning!
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal. I’ve also used oat flour when I had no breadcrumbs, and it worked just fine!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a deep flavor to your patties and gravy. You can replace it with soy sauce for a different taste, or skip it altogether if you’re avoiding soy or gluten.
Mushrooms: While optional, they add a wonderful flavor. If you’re not a fan, leave them out or substitute with another veggie like chopped bell peppers.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Thick Gravy?
Thickening the gravy is key for that classic Salisbury steak experience. Here’s how to do it:
- Make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl.
- Before adding the slurry, remove the patties to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Stir the slurry into the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. This will instantly thicken the gravy.
- Return the patties and let them cook a bit longer for the flavors to meld.
Make sure to stir gently to keep the gravy smooth. If you want it thicker, you can add a bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water.
Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for the gravy)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time and then will need to cook in your slow cooker for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a simple, hands-off meal that gives you time to relax while the flavors meld beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a fork or your hands and be careful not to overmix. You want everything combined but still tender!
2. Shape the Patties:
Once mixed, shape the beef mixture into 6 oval-shaped patties. Try to make them uniform in size so they cook evenly.
3. Place the Patties in the Slow Cooker:
Lay the patties in the slow cooker in a single layer, giving a bit of space between each for even cooking.
4. Make the Gravy:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the patties gently to avoid splashing.
5. Add in Optional Mushrooms:
If you’re using mushrooms, scatter them over the patties now. They will get nice and tender as they cook!
6. Set the Slow Cooker:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It will be worth the wait!
7. Thicken the Gravy:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. This will help give your gravy that perfect, rich texture.
8. Remove the Patties:
Carefully take the patties out of the slow cooker and set them aside on a plate. This will make stirring in the slurry easier without breaking the patties!
9. Stir in the Slurry:
Pour the cornstarch slurry into the liquid in the slow cooker and stir well. This will thicken the gravy beautifully.
10. Return Patties to the Slow Cooker:
Gently put the patties back into the slow cooker and let them cook for another 15-20 minutes. This allows the gravy to meld with the beef for richer flavor.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once ready, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color. Serve your Salisbury steak hot with mashed potatoes or rice for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken! Just keep in mind that these are leaner meats, so be sure to season well to enhance the flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well. It’s an easy swap that still delivers delicious results!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the Salisbury steak in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How Do I Reheat Leftover Salisbury Steak?
Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it until warmed through, making sure to cover it to retain moisture.
