salisbury steak slow cooker recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best salisbury steak slow cooker recipe

I’ve been making this Salisbury steak slow cooker recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated in the United States in the early 20th century, and it’s a classic American comfort food.

The slow cooker version is a game-changer – it’s so easy to prepare and cook, and the results are always tender and flavorful. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ground beef and a rich gravy that’s made with beef broth and a little bit of tomato paste.

I love how this recipe feels like a warm hug on a cold day – it’s comforting, familiar, and always satisfying. My kids devour this dish, and it’s one of their favorite meals.

I’ve even served it at family gatherings, and everyone raves about it. The best part is that it’s incredibly healthy – the slow cooker breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it easier to digest.

I’ve also noticed that my kids eat more of this meal because it’s made with wholesome ingredients. I’m so glad I discovered this recipe, and I think you will be too once you try it.

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

4.8 from 1130 votes

Tender beef patties simmered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy. This classic comfort food is made easy in the slow cooker for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef Patties

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Gravy

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
2Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3Shape the mixture into 6 oval patties, each about 3/4 inch thick.
4Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Sear the patties in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms.
6Transfer the browned patties to a plate and set aside; they will not be fully cooked at this point.
7In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onion and mushrooms.
8Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms have released their liquid.
9Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
10Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
11Add the tomato paste, remaining 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
12Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring often, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
13Place the seared patties into the slow cooker in a single layer, overlapping if necessary.
14Pour the mushroom gravy over the patties, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
15Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the patties are tender and cooked through.
16Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
17Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, spooning the gravy over the top.
18They pair well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Large skillet
6-quart slow cooker
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 26g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 115mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a richer gravy, substitute half of the beef broth with dry red wine. To ensure the patties hold their shape, do not skip the browning step. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Works

This salisbury steak slow cooker recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is simple, reliable, and feeds a crowd with minimal effort. I make it for family dinners, holiday gatherings, and even potlucks, and it never fails to get compliments.

The slow cooker does the work, so I can spend time with my guests instead of standing over the stove. For storage, let the leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat, gently warm the salisbury steak and gravy in a skillet over medium low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened too much. You can also freeze the cooked patties and gravy in a freezer safe container for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Serve the leftovers over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious gravy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

1. Can I use frozen ground beef for this salisbury steak recipe?

It is best to use thawed ground beef so you can form the patties and brown them properly. If you use frozen, the patties will not hold together well and may cook unevenly. Thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight before starting.

2. How do I keep the salisbury steak patties from falling apart in the slow cooker?

Make sure to include breadcrumbs and an egg in the meat mixture, as these act as binders. Also, browning the patties in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker helps them keep their shape. Do not stir the patties once they are in the slow cooker, just let them cook gently.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes, you can use gluten free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten free crackers in place of regular breadcrumbs. For the gravy, use a gluten free flour or cornstarch slurry to thicken it. Check your beef broth and soup mixes to ensure they are gluten free as well.

4. How long can I cook salisbury steak on low in the slow cooker?

Cook the salisbury steak on low for 6 to 8 hours. Cooking it longer than 8 hours may cause the patties to become too soft and start to break apart. For best results, check the patties at the 6 hour mark to see if they are tender.

5. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the salisbury steak?

Absolutely, you can add sliced mushrooms, onions, or even carrots to the slow cooker. Place them at the bottom of the slow cooker before adding the patties and gravy. They will cook down and add extra flavor to the dish.

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