Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak has been a cherished comfort food in my family for as long as I can remember. I still recall the aroma filling my grandma’s kitchen on chilly evenings – that rich, savory gravy bubbling away, promising a hearty meal. This easy ground beef dinner became one of my favorites, and now I’ve discovered the magic of making this classic in my slow cooker. It transforms humble ingredients into a tender, flavorful dish that truly warms the soul. This easy slow cooker Salisbury steak recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering that same nostalgic taste with minimal fuss. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
I promise you’ll fall in love with this recipe for so many reasons. It’s truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners:
- The rich, savory gravy and tender beef patties are pure comfort on a plate.
- Prep time is minimal, allowing the slow cooker to do all the hard work.
- It’s a budget-friendly meal, using simple ingredients you likely already have.
- This makes for fantastic comfort food slow cooker meals, perfect for chilly evenings.
- My whole family, even the picky eaters, devours this delicious dish.
- It’s one of those hearty comfort food slow cooker meals that fills you up without weighing you down.
- The leftovers are just as good, making meal prep a breeze.
- You get all the flavor of a classic dish with very little effort.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Gathering your Salisbury steak crock pot ingredients is the first step to this incredibly easy and delicious meal. I’ve found that using quality ingredients makes all the difference in the final flavor of your homemade slow cooker Salisbury steak.
- 2 lbs lean ground beef – I prefer 80/20 for flavor, but 90/10 works too.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – plain or seasoned, your choice!
- 1/4 cup milk – any type of milk will do.
- 1 oz packet onion soup mix – this is key for that savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – adds a lovely herbaceous note.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – for dredging the patties, helps create a crust.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – for browning the patties.
- 1 white onion, sliced – about 1 large onion, sliced into rings.
- 2 10 oz cans condensed cream of chicken soup – the base of our rich gravy.
- 3/4 cup water – to thin the gravy slightly.
- 1 oz packet au jus mix – enhances the beefy flavor of the gravy.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Making this delicious Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. I love how simple it is to achieve such a rich, satisfying meal. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a fantastic dinner ready with minimal effort.
- Step 1: First, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, the full packet of onion soup mix, and dried thyme. I find that using my hands is the best way to gently mix everything until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
- Step 2: Now it’s time to form the patties. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into oval or round patties, about 1/2 inch thick. These will be your delicious slow cooker Salisbury steak patties.
- Step 3: Layer the sliced white onion evenly on the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a bed for the patties and infuses the gravy with a wonderful onion flavor as it cooks.
- Step 4: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly dredge each Salisbury steak patty in the all-purpose flour. This step is crucial for how to make Salisbury steak in a slow cooker, as it helps create a nice crust and thickens the gravy later. Brown the patties on both sides for about 2 minutes per side. You’re not cooking them through, just getting a lovely golden sear. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Step 5: Carefully place the browned patties on top of the onions in the slow cooker. You can stack them slightly if needed; they’ll settle down as they cook.
- Step 6: In a separate bowl, whisk together the two cans of condensed cream of chicken soup, water, and the au jus mix until completely smooth. This mixture will become your rich, savory gravy.
- Step 7: Pour this delicious sauce evenly over the Salisbury steak patties in the slow cooker, making sure they are well covered. This ensures every bite will be infused with flavor.
- Step 8: Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. The cooking time for how to make Salisbury steak in a slow cooker can vary slightly, but you’ll know it’s ready when the beef is fully cooked and incredibly tender, and the gravy has thickened beautifully. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that truly elevate this dish from good to absolutely amazing. These pro tips will help you create the best slow cooker Salisbury steak every single time, ensuring tender patties and a rich, flavorful gravy.
- Don’t overmix the meat: Gentle handling of the ground beef mixture is key to keeping your patties tender and juicy. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense Salisbury steak.
- Brown the patties: While it’s an extra step, browning the patties before adding them to the slow cooker adds a depth of flavor and helps them hold their shape better. It creates a delicious crust!
- Use a good quality onion soup mix: This humble ingredient is a powerhouse of flavor for your gravy. Don’t skimp on it; it’s essential for that classic savory taste in your slow cooker Salisbury steak.
- Let it rest: Just like any good meat, letting the Salisbury steak rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a more tender and flavorful result.
What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak?
The real secret to the best slow cooker Salisbury steak lies in the combination of browning the patties and utilizing the onion soup mix. Browning locks in flavor and texture, while the soup mix, combined with the au jus, creates an incredibly rich and savory gravy that clings perfectly to the tender beef.
Can I make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and even brown them a day in advance. Store the uncooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, simply layer them in the slow cooker with the onions and pour over the gravy mixture to cook.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak?
To avoid tough patties, remember not to overmix the ground beef. If your gravy isn’t thick enough, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Also, ensure your slow cooker is on the correct setting to prevent burning or undercooking.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
Once your amazing slow cooker Salisbury steak is ready, the possibilities for serving are endless! I always look forward to pairing this rich, savory dish with sides that soak up all that incredible gravy. It truly elevates the meal and makes for satisfying Salisbury steak dinner ideas.
My absolute favorite is serving it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. They’re like a sponge for the delicious gravy, making every bite heavenly. Egg noodles are another fantastic choice; their delicate texture perfectly complements the tender beef patties. If you’re looking for something lighter, fluffy white rice also works wonderfully.
Don’t forget your greens! A simple side salad or some steamed green beans with a pat of butter add a fresh contrast to the hearty Salisbury steak. These pairings ensure you have a complete, comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
While I haven’t calculated the exact nutrition for this homemade Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak recipe, I can provide estimated values per serving based on similar dishes. This will give you a good idea of what you’re getting with each delicious portion of slow cooker Salisbury steak.
- Calories: Approximately 450-550
- Fat: Approximately 25-35g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
- Fiber: Approximately 2-4g
- Sugar: Approximately 4-8g
- Sodium: Approximately 800-1200mg
Please remember that nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands, types of ingredients used, and exact serving sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
One of the best things about this slow cooker Salisbury steak recipe is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures that every bite remains as delicious as the first. I always make a big batch so I have some for later!
First, allow any leftover slow cooker Salisbury steak to cool completely before storing. Transfer the patties and gravy to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes for super easy lunches or dinners during the week.
And yes, can you freeze slow cooker Salisbury steak? Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions or the entire dish. Place the cooled patties and gravy in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the gravy seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
How long to cook Salisbury steak in slow cooker?
I find that for most slow cookers, a cooking time of 4 to 5 hours on the LOW setting is perfect for slow cooker Salisbury steak. This allows the beef patties to become incredibly tender and the gravy to thicken beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours, but I personally prefer the low and slow method for maximum tenderness and flavor development.
Can I use frozen beef patties for slow cooker Salisbury steak?
While I always recommend using fresh ground beef for the best texture and flavor in your slow cooker Salisbury steak, you can use frozen beef patties in a pinch. If you do, make sure they are fully thawed before browning and adding them to the slow cooker. Cooking from frozen can affect the gravy consistency and patty texture.
How do I thicken my slow cooker Salisbury steak gravy if it’s too thin?
If your gravy for slow cooker Salisbury steak turns out thinner than you’d like, don’t worry, it’s an easy fix! My go-to method is to make a cornstarch slurry. Simply whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking on HIGH, or after cooking, then simmer gently on the stovetop until it reaches your desired thickness.
What can I serve with slow cooker Salisbury steak for a complete meal?
I love serving slow cooker Salisbury steak with classic comfort food sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit, as they’re perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy. Egg noodles or white rice also work wonderfully. For a touch of freshness, I often add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli on the side. It truly makes for a satisfying and complete meal!
Variations of Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with these delicious variations of slow cooker Salisbury steak. I love how versatile this dish is, allowing you to tailor it to different tastes or dietary needs, making your crockpot Salisbury steak experience even more exciting.
- Mushroom Lover’s Version: For an earthy twist, sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with the onions before adding them to the slow cooker. They’ll infuse the gravy with an incredible depth of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy. This gives your slow cooker Salisbury steak a lively, zesty edge.
- Cream of Mushroom Swap: While I prefer cream of chicken, some people love using cream of mushroom soup for an even richer, more mushroom-forward gravy. It’s a simple change that totally transforms the flavor profile of your crockpot Salisbury steak.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional value by stirring in some frozen peas, carrots, or corn during the last hour of cooking. It’s an easy way to add color and extra goodness to your meal.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak: 1 Secret for Tender Beef
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
This slow cooker Salisbury steak recipe delivers a comforting, savory meal with tender beef patties swimming in a rich, oniony gravy. It’s an easy, homemade version of a classic comfort food, perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 oz packet onion soup mix
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 white onion, sliced
- 2 10 oz cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 oz packet au jus mix
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion soup mix, and dried thyme. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the beef mixture into 8 oval-shaped patties.
- Layer the sliced white onion evenly on the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly dredge each Salisbury steak patty in flour and brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary.
- Place the browned patties on top of the onions in the slow cooker, stacking them slightly if needed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, water, and au jus mix until smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the Salisbury steak patties in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the beef is fully cooked and tender, and the gravy is thick and savory.
Notes
- Serve your slow cooker Salisbury steak over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice to soak up all the delicious gravy.
- For a richer gravy, stir in a splash of cream or a pat of butter before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- These slow cooker Salisbury steak patties freeze well. Cool completely, then store with gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty with gravy
- Calories: Not available
- Sugar: Not available
- Sodium: Not available
- Fat: Not available
- Saturated Fat: Not available
- Unsaturated Fat: Not available
- Trans Fat: Not available
- Carbohydrates: Not available
- Fiber: Not available
- Protein: Not available
- Cholesterol: Not available