Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Recipe: Comfort Food Made Easy
If you’re craving a hearty, homestyle meal that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, flavorful beef patties simmer slowly in a rich mushroom and onion gravy, creating a dish that’s pure comfort on a plate.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal—all with the ease of your slow cooker.
What Is Salisbury Steak?
Despite its fancy name, Salisbury steak isn’t steak at all—it’s seasoned ground beef shaped into patties and cooked in a flavorful brown gravy.
This classic American comfort food dates back to the 1800s, named after Dr. J.H. Salisbury, who promoted a meat-centered diet. Today, it’s a beloved family favorite known for its rich flavor, tender texture, and comforting nostalgia.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Version
Effortless: Mix, brown, and let the slow cooker do the rest.
Tender & juicy: Slow cooking keeps the patties moist and flavorful.
Rich gravy: The combination of beef broth, onions, and mushrooms creates a luxurious, savory sauce.
Family-friendly: Pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steaks:
1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 large egg
½ small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
For the Gravy:
1 medium onion, sliced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional but highly recommended)
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 packet brown gravy mix (or 2 tbsp flour for thickening)
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare the Patties
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until combined—don’t overwork the meat.
Shape into 4–6 oval patties about ¾ inch thick.
2. Brown the Patties
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Brown each patty for 2–3 minutes per side—just until golden. (They don’t need to be cooked through; this step locks in flavor.)
Place browned patties in the bottom of your slow cooker.
3. Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, add sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, gravy mix (or flour), ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the onions and mushrooms.
4. Slow Cook
Pour the onion-mushroom mixture over the patties in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook:
Low: 5–6 hours
High: 3–4 hours
The result? Tender Salisbury steaks bathed in a luscious, thick gravy.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, white rice, or egg noodles. Spoon plenty of that rich gravy on top, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Salisbury Steak
Don’t skip browning: It adds deep, savory flavor to the finished dish.
Use lean beef wisely: 80/20 gives the best balance of flavor and tenderness.
Thicker gravy: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Add veggies: Carrots or peas can be added for extra color and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooked patties and gravy for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker Salisbury steak pairs beautifully with classic sides such as:
Creamy mashed potatoes
