This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks dish is a hearty meal that’s super easy to make! Juicy beef patties simmer in a tasty gravy with mushrooms, making it comforting and filling.
I love serving it over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. It’s like a warm, cozy hug on a plate! Plus, I can just set it and forget it, which means more time for snacks! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute, but you might want to add a bit more seasoning to keep it flavorful.
Breadcrumbs: Simple dry breadcrumbs work best, but you can use panko for a crunchier texture. For a gluten-free option, try crushed rice or corn flakes. I’ve even added crushed crackers in a pinch!
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds a deep flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar can mimic the flavor well. Just be sure to adjust for saltiness if you do this!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can use homemade cream of mushroom soup for a fresher taste or even a different cream soup like cream of chicken. If you prefer a healthier version, consider using a low-fat or lighter version of the soup.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are great for texture and flavor. If you can’t find fresh mushrooms, canned mushrooms work too, but they might not have the same bite. You could also leave them out altogether if you prefer!
How Do I Brown the Patties for Extra Flavor?
Browning the patties before slow cooking gives them a lovely color and deepens the flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil.
- Place the patties in the skillet carefully to avoid splatter.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t rush—let them develop that nice crust!
- Once browned, transfer the patties to the slow cooker right on top of the sliced onions and mushrooms.
Remember, if you’re short on time or just want an easier step, you can skip browning and go straight to slow cooking, but the flavor won’t be quite as rich! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Patties:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
For The Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) brown gravy mix
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker Salisbury steaks recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, and then you can set it to cook for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s low-maintenance and super delicious, perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Use your hands to mix everything together gently until just combined. Then, form the mixture into oval-shaped patties, about 4-6 in total.
2. Brown the Patties (Optional):
If you want a little extra flavor, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a nice golden brown. If you prefer to skip this step, feel free to go straight to the slow cooker!
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
In the bottom of the slow cooker, place the sliced onions and mushrooms. This will create a delicious base for the patties.
4. Arrange the Patties:
Carefully place the browned patties right on top of the onions and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, and beef broth until it’s nice and smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the patties in the slow cooker, allowing it to coat everything well.
6. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The patties should be cooked through and tender by the end of the cooking time.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once your Salisbury steaks are done, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve the steaks over fluffy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that delicious gravy. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for ground beef. Just be sure to keep an eye on cooking times, as turkey patties may cook a bit faster. You could also add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor since turkey can be more mild than beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these Salisbury steaks gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure the beef broth and cream of mushroom soup are also labeled gluten-free to maintain the dish’s integrity.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth to keep them moist. These patties also freeze well—just wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer for up to 2 months!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or peas for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and layer them with the onions and mushrooms at the bottom of the slow cooker for the best results.
