These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks are hearty and comforting! Made with juicy ground beef, they’re smothered in a rich mushroom and onion gravy that will warm your soul.
Who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that practically cooks itself? I just toss everything in my slow cooker and let it do the work while I kick back. Perfect for busy days!
Serve these tasty steaks with creamy mashed potatoes or fresh veggies. Trust me, everyone will be asking for more! It’s a big hug in a dish! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This forms the main body of your Salisbury steak. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be a bit different, but it will still be tasty!
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the patties together. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats, which work nicely too. I often use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a depth of flavor. If you’re out, soy sauce can work as a substitute. However, it will change the flavor a bit, so add it slowly and taste as you go!
Beef Broth: Homemade or store-bought beef broth is excellent here. For a lighter option, you might use vegetable broth. Just make sure to season well to maintain flavor.
Cornstarch: This is optional for thickening the gravy. If you don’t have any, use flour mixed with water instead, but the thickness may vary slightly.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Salisbury Steaks?
To really enhance the flavor of your Salisbury steaks, start by searing them in a skillet. This step locks in moisture and creates a lovely crust. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re nicely browned. Don’t rush this step; it builds flavor!
- After searing, remove the patties and sauté your onions and mushrooms in the same skillet. This helps to capture the meat flavors left in the pan.
By following these techniques, you’ll make your Salisbury steaks truly delicious! Enjoy them served with a comforting side like mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that tasty gravy.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
For the Cooking Liquid:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let the slow cooker work its magic for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until well combined. Don’t be shy — make sure it’s all evenly mixed!
2. Form the Patties:
Once your beef mixture is ready, shape it into 4 rectangular patties (or steaks) of equal size. They don’t have to be perfect; just aim for similar thickness so they cook evenly.
3. Sear the Patties:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned. This step adds flavor! Once browned, remove the patties from the skillet and let them sit aside for now.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and onions. Cook for about 5 minutes or until they are softened and fragrant. Then, remove them from heat.
5. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the beef broth and ketchup into your slow cooker, stirring everything together to mix well. This will create a rich sauce for your steaks.
6. Layer Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seared patties into the slow cooker, then top them with the sautéed mushrooms and onions. It’s like building a delicious flavor tower!
7. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking will make everything tender and flavorful.
8. (Optional) Thicken the Gravy:
If you want a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Add this mixture to the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir it in gently.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is done cooking, serve your Salisbury steaks garnished with fresh parsley. They go great over mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitution for a lighter option. Just keep in mind it may require a little more seasoning to enhance the flavor, so consider adding an extra pinch of salt or spices to the mixture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this Salisbury steak recipe gluten-free, simply swap the bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Make sure all sauces and broths used are also labeled gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth as a substitute. If using vegetable broth, you might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as it tends to be milder.
Can I Store Leftovers and How Long Do They Last?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the patties and gravy, which can last up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating!
