Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

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Rich, savory, and deeply comforting — Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is the kind of hearty dish that brings everyone to the table. Imagine tender beef patties seared to a golden crust, then slow-cooked until fork-tender in a luscious brown onion-mushroom gravy. Served over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles, every bite melts into a medley of bold, meaty flavor and velvety sauce.

Perfect for a cozy night in, this classic dinner idea transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, making this not just an easy recipe, but also a fantastic option for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Whether you’re after comfort food or looking for family dinner ideas, this dish checks all the boxes.

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Ingredients for this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water (for slurry)
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for added depth)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Step 1: Prepare the Salisbury Steak Patties

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until everything is evenly incorporated — avoid overmixing, or the patties may turn out tough. Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 oval patties, depending on your preferred size.

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Step 2: Brown the Patties

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each patty for about 2–3 minutes per side, until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. This step is key for building flavor and texture but don’t worry about cooking them through — they’ll finish in the slow cooker.

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Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Place the sliced onions and mushrooms in the bottom of your slow cooker. Lay the browned patties on top of the vegetables. These veggies will soak up all the meaty juices and enhance the richness of the gravy.

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Step 4: Make the Gravy Base

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth, Dijon mustard (if using), and a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Pour this mixture over the patties and vegetables in the slow cooker. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce during the long, slow cook.

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Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the patties are fully cooked through and the gravy has thickened beautifully. Gently stir the sauce before serving to make sure it’s evenly combined.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Carefully lift the patties onto plates or a serving dish. Stir the gravy to make sure it’s smooth and spoon it generously over each steak. Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even steamed rice.

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Storage Instructions

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure the patties are submerged in gravy to prevent drying out.
• Freezer: Place cooled steaks and gravy in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge (if frozen), then reheat in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the gravy thickened too much during storage.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: Values are estimates based on 1 serving (1 patty with gravy, assuming 6 servings total). Actual values may vary based on ingredients and serving sizes.

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey makes a leaner version of this dish. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to enhance flavor.

2. Do I need to brown the patties first?

While not absolutely required, browning the patties adds a rich, caramelized flavor and improves texture. It’s highly recommended.

3. What if I don’t have mushrooms?

You can leave them out or substitute with diced carrots or extra onions. The gravy will still be delicious.

4. Can I make this on the stovetop instead?

Definitely. Brown the patties, then simmer them in the gravy over low heat for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked and tender.

5. Is the cornstarch slurry necessary?

Yes, it helps thicken the gravy. You can also use flour or arrowroot as a substitute if needed.

6. What’s the best side dish for this?

Mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed white rice are all excellent choices to soak up that amazing gravy.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

8. How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Swap cornstarch for arrowroot if desired.

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