These Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks are juicy and comforting. Made with ground beef, tasty gravy, and a side of mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
Honestly, who can resist beefy goodness soaked in warm gravy? I love to serve it with buttery mashed potatoes—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Beef is the base of the patties. If you want a leaner option, turkey or chicken can be used instead. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it’s a great alternative.
Breadcrumbs: I used plain breadcrumbs for binding, but panko breadcrumbs can add great texture. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers.
Onion: Fresh onions in the patties and sliced ones for the sauce contribute a lot of flavor. In a pinch, you can substitute with shallots or green onions, which can add a nice twist.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a unique umami flavor. If you’re out, soy sauce or even balsamic vinegar can provide a similar depth.
Beef Broth: Chicken broth can work here, but beef broth truly enhances the meatiness of the dish. Vegetable broth is also a good option for a lighter flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Salisbury Steaks Are Cooked to Perfection?
Cooking the patties perfectly is essential for a great meal. When you brown the patties before adding them to the slow cooker, you create a nice crust and deepen the flavor. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough. If the oil shimmers, it’s ready for the patties.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked through; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
After slow cooking, if you want thicker gravy, just remember to mix the cornstarch with water until smooth and add it while stirring the mixture. This will help achieve that perfect consistency!
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes to prepare everything, plus 6-8 hours of slow cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, set it up in the morning, and let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Get your hands in there and mix until everything is combined well. This will create the tasty base for your Salisbury steaks!
2. Shape the Steaks:
Once mixed, shape the beef mixture into 4 to 6 oval patties, which will be your Salisbury steaks. Try to make them consistent in size, so they cook evenly.
3. Brown the Patties:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This adds great flavor and color! Once they’re browned, carefully transfer them to the slow cooker.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and transparent, and the mushrooms are slightly browned. This step adds so much flavor, so don’t skip it! Pour this mixture over the patties in the slow cooker.
5. Add the Broth:
Next, pour the beef broth over the patties and vegetables in the slow cooker. This will keep everything moist and delicious as it cooks!
6. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the patties are tender and fully cooked through.
7. Optional Thickening:
If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with the water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to thicken up nicely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s all done, serve your warm Salisbury steaks garnished with chopped parsley. They go perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice! Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter version of Salisbury steaks. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings slightly, as these meats may not be as rich in flavor. You might want to add a bit more Worcestershire sauce or seasoning to enhance the taste!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, verify that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. While the flavor will differ slightly, it will still yield a delicious dish. For added richness, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or additional Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them up in a skillet over low heat, or use the microwave. If the gravy has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up during reheating.
