This Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is all about comfort! Juicy beef patties swim in a rich mushroom gravy, and you don’t even have to fuss—just toss everything in the slow cooker and relax!
I love how simple it is to make. While it cooks, I can kick back and catch my favorite show. Serve it over mashed potatoes or rice, and your family will be asking for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives great flavor here. I like using 85% lean as it has enough fat for juiciness without being too greasy. If you want a leaner option, go for 90% lean, or use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version!
Breadcrumbs: They help the patties hold together. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work too. For gluten-free diets, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, there are vegan cream soups available, or you can make a homemade white sauce using coconut milk.
Mushrooms: While optional, I love adding mushrooms because they add extra flavor and texture. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or replace them with sautéed spinach or even bell peppers!
How Do I Make Sure My Patties Hold Together?
Getting those patties to hold their shape is crucial. Mix everything gently; overmixing can make them tough. Here’s how to shape and cook them perfectly:
- Combine ingredients until just mixed—don’t overwork the meat.
- Form patties that are about ½ inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Space the patties apart in the slow cooker to allow the sauce to flow around them while cooking.
These tricks will help keep your Salisbury steak nice and tender! Enjoy cooking with ease and confidence!
Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated onion (about 1 small onion)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Gravy:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms (optional)
For Thickening (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. So, just mix and relax while it does its thing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing so your patties stay tender!
2. Shape the Patties:
Shape the beef mixture into six oval-shaped patties, making them about ½ inch thick. Place the patties carefully in the slow cooker in a single layer.
3. Make the Gravy:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, ketchup, soy sauce, and the sliced mushrooms (if using). This will be the flavorful sauce that makes your Salisbury steak delicious!
4. Pour and Cook:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the patties in the slow cooker. Cover the cooking dish with the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The patties should be cooked through and tender by the end of this time.
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
If you want your gravy thicker, mix the cornstarch with the water in a small bowl to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir this mixture into the slow cooker and cook on high until the sauce thickens up perfectly!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your Salisbury steak is done, serve it hot, spooning the delicious mushroom gravy over the top. This dish goes wonderfully over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Enjoy every bite of comfort food goodness!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken is a fantastic lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may result in a different flavor—consider adding extra seasonings to enhance the taste!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your cream of mushroom soup and beef broth are also gluten-free!
Can I Make Salisbury Steak Without Mushrooms?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to leave them out. You can also replace them with sliced bell peppers or diced carrots for extra flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep the gravy moist.
