Comfort food at its finest! This slow cooker Salisbury steak is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings a nostalgic diner-style meal straight to your home with minimal effort. Tender beef patties simmered in a rich mushroom and onion gravy—this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
For the steak patties:
1 ½ pounds (680g) ground beef (85% lean)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the gravy:
2 cups beef broth
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening, optional)
1 small onion, thinly sliced
8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced (or 1 can, drained)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape them into oval-shaped patties, about ½ inch thick.
- Brown the Patties (Optional but Recommended)
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each patty for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Make the Gravy
In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup.
- Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange the browned patties on top.
Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the patties, making sure everything is well-covered.
- Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the patties are tender and fully cooked.
- Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker gravy, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Set the slow cooker to high until the gravy thickens.
- Serve and Enjoy!
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and soup.
Add veggies: Add frozen peas or carrots during the last hour of cooking.
Make ahead: You can form and brown the patties the night before and refrigerate them for a quicker morning start.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker Salisbury steak is a no-fuss, classic American comfort food recipe that fills your home with delicious aroma. The meat turns out melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the savory mushroom gravy is rich and satisfying—perfect for family dinners.