Savor the Flavor: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Are you ready to take a culinary journey to comfort food heaven? Look no further than our delectable Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak recipe! Tender beef patties smothered in a savory mushroom gravy, all cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker. Whether you’re serving up a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends and family, this classic dish is sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to delight your taste buds with this timeless favorite!
Ingredients:
For the beef patties:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 whole eggs
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the gravy:
- 4 cups thinly sliced cremini mushrooms
- 4 tablespoons finely chopped parsley (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups no-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the beef patties: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into oval-shaped patties.
- Brown the patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Brown the beef patties on both sides, working in batches if necessary, until they are nicely seared. Transfer the browned patties to the slow cooker.
- Add the mushrooms and seasonings: Layer the thinly sliced cremini mushrooms over the beef patties in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with finely chopped parsley, if using, and add the bay leaves.
- Prepare the gravy: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and all-purpose flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth. Stir in the lemon juice and seasoned salt.
- Pour the gravy over the patties: Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the beef patties and mushrooms in the slow cooker, ensuring that everything is well coated.
- Slow cook to perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the beef patties are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, remove the bay leaves from the slow cooker. Serve the Salisbury steak hot, spooning the mushroom gravy over the top. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This is a great time-saving option for busy days!
- Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, you can add diced onions or bell peppers to the beef mixture before shaping the patties.
- Thickening the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it into the gravy during the last hour of cooking.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, you can substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the breadcrumbs in the beef patties. Use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or glucomannan powder instead of flour in the gravy.
- Low Carb Version: Similarly, for a lower-carb option, you can use almond flour or coconut flour in place of breadcrumbs in the beef patties. Use a low-carb beef broth and thicken the gravy with a low-carb thickener such as arrowroot powder or guar gum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Leftover Salisbury steak can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I cook this recipe on high heat instead of low? A: While the slow cooker is typically used on low heat for longer cooking times, you can cook this recipe on high heat for 2-3 hours if you’re short on time. Just be sure to monitor the cooking progress closely.
Q: Can I omit the mushrooms? A: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can certainly omit them from the recipe. Feel free to add extra vegetables or herbs to customize the dish to your liking.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender beef patties, flavorful mushroom gravy, and simple preparation in the slow cooker, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic as you savor the delicious flavors of this classic comfort food dish!