Crockpot Salisbury Steak is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners. Tender beef patties are slow-cooked in a rich mushroom and onion gravy, resulting in a satisfying dish full of flavor. Served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, this easy slow-cooker version of Salisbury steak is sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For Salisbury Steaks
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
For Gravy
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (optional, for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salisbury Steaks
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 6-8 patties.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
- Brown the patties for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they have a nice sear. You don’t need to cook them all the way through at this point.
- Transfer the browned patties to the crockpot.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Pour the mixture over the onions and mushrooms and stir to combine.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
- Pour the gravy mixture over the Salisbury steak patties in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the patties are tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, topped with the mushroom and onion gravy. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Browning: Browning the patties before adding them to the crockpot helps to develop more flavor, but it can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Gravy Consistency: The cornstarch slurry is optional, depending on how thick you like your gravy.
- Vegetables: You can add sliced carrots or bell peppers to the crockpot for added flavor and nutrition.
Variations
- Turkey Salisbury Steaks: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version of this dish.
- Creamy Gravy: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamier gravy.
- Spicy Salisbury Steak: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a touch of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Salisbury Steak Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and brown them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to add to the crockpot.
2. How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I Freeze Salisbury Steak?
Yes, Salisbury steak can be frozen. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What Can I Serve with Salisbury Steak?
This dish is traditionally served with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, but it also pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Crockpot Salisbury Steak is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender beef patties and a rich, savory gravy, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Serve it over mashed potatoes or noodles for a delicious and satisfying dinner that everyone will love.
Happy cooking!