Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is a classic comfort food dish that brings together tender beef patties with a rich mushroom and onion gravy. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you at dinner time. By using a slow cooker, you can let the flavors meld together while you go about your day, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal.

Ingredients:
For the patties:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup minced onion
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the gravy:

• 1 small onion, sliced
• 6 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 package brown gravy mix
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, minced onion, breadcrumbs, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the beef mixture into oval-shaped patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Set aside.
3. Place the sliced onion and mushrooms in the bottom of your slow cooker.
4. Arrange the prepared beef patties on top of the onions and mushrooms.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, ketchup (if using), and Dijon mustard (if using) until smooth.
6. Pour the gravy mixture over the beef patties in the slow cooker.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is cooked through and tender.
8. About 30 minutes before serving, carefully remove about 1/2 cup of the hot gravy from the slow cooker and transfer it to a small bowl.
9. Whisk the cornstarch into the reserved gravy until smooth, then pour the mixture back into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
10. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes on low, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
11. Once ready, serve the Salisbury steak patties with plenty of the delicious mushroom and onion gravy spooned over the top.
12. Pair your slow cooker Salisbury steak with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and your favorite vegetable sides for a complete and comforting meal.

Tips:

• For added flavor, you can sauté the onions and mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add more cornstarch to the reserved gravy mixture.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated for a quick and easy meal.

Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With simple ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy this classic meal with minimal effort. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite for years to come.

1. Can I Use Lean Ground Beef for the Patties?

• While lean ground beef can be used for the patties in this recipe, it’s important to note that the fat content contributes to the flavor and juiciness of the Salisbury steak. Lean ground beef may result in slightly drier patties. If you opt for lean ground beef, consider adding a bit of olive oil or butter to the mixture to help retain moisture and enhance the flavor.

1. Can I Substitute the Brown Gravy Mix with Homemade Gravy?

• Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own gravy instead of using a packaged mix, you can substitute it in this recipe. To make homemade gravy, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually pour in beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. Simmer until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, then pour it over the beef patties in the slow cooker.

1. How Do I Prevent the Beef Patties from Falling Apart?

• Properly binding the beef mixture is key to preventing the patties from falling apart during cooking. Make sure to thoroughly mix the ingredients together until well combined. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the patties together. Additionally, allowing the patties to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking can help firm them up and hold their shape. When handling the patties, be gentle to avoid breaking them apart, especially when transferring them to the slow cooker.

1. Can I Customize the Gravy to Suit My Preferences?

• Absolutely! The gravy in this recipe serves as a flavorful complement to the Salisbury steak patties, but you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For instance, if you enjoy a richer gravy, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream towards the end of cooking. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of brown sugar. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to tailor the gravy to your liking.

1. How Do I Adjust the Cooking Time for a Smaller Batch?

• If you’re preparing a smaller batch of Salisbury steak patties, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from overcooking. Reduce the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low or 30 minutes to 1 hour on high for smaller batches. Keep an eye on the patties towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they reach the desired level of doneness without becoming dry or overcooked.

1. Can I Freeze Leftover Salisbury Steak for Later Use?

• Yes, leftover Salisbury steak patties and gravy can be frozen for later use. Allow the patties and gravy to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Be sure to label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification. Frozen Salisbury steak can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Consider thawing the patties in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.