Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks with Onion Mushroom Brown Gravy

 Why Make Salisbury Steaks from Scratch?

Making Salisbury steaks from scratch puts you in control of every ingredient, flavor, and texture—something store-bought versions can’t offer. Pre-packaged Salisbury steak dinners are often loaded with preservatives, excess sodium, and artificial flavorings. By crafting your own, you ensure every bite is made with fresh ingredients and tailored to your preferences.

Homemade versions allow you to:

• Control the meat blend: Use a mixture of ground beef and ground turkey for a lighter, more balanced texture.

• Adjust the seasoning: Prefer it a little smokier or spicier? Customize it with paprika, chili flakes, or fresh herbs.

• Skip additives: Say goodbye to mystery ingredients and focus on wholesome pantry staples like onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices.

Cooking at home also means your dish will align better with dietary needs. Want it low-sodium or gluten-free? Simply choose suitable broth and breadcrumbs. Interested in more versatile slow cooker ideas? Browse these slow cooker dinner recipes to explore different flavor combinations and proteins.

Finally, slow cooking enhances the dish even further, developing a rich, savory flavor that boxed meals just can’t replicate. Pair it with these hearty ground beef meal ideas for a full week of family-friendly dinners.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Patties:

• 1 lb ground beef: Offers rich flavor and juiciness.

• 1/2 lb ground turkey: Lightens the texture and fat content.

• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Binds the mixture and adds softness.

• 1 egg: Helps hold the patties together.

• 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and tenderness.

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens umami flavor. Learn more about Worcestershire sauce.

• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Distributes flavor throughout the meat.

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle aromatic depth.

• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.

For the Gravy:

• 2 cups beef broth: Forms the flavorful base of the onion mushroom gravy.

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds tangy depth.

• 1 tablespoon ketchup: A hint of sweetness to balance the savory notes.

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water: Thickens the gravy to a silky consistency.

• 1 small onion, sliced: Enhances sweetness and complexity.

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional): Brings earthy, umami flavor.

Optional Additions:

• Fresh garlic cloves or shallots

• Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary

• Soy sauce for extra umami

• Gluten-free breadcrumbs and broth for dietary needs

Each ingredient plays a specific role in building the classic Salisbury steak flavor profile. To dive deeper into gravy variations, check out these homemade gravy techniques on Pinterest or the different gravy types on Wikipedia.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mixing and Forming the Patties:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.

3. Form the mixture into 5 to 6 oval-shaped patties of even thickness.

Browning the Patties:

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly brown the patties on both sides. This adds flavor through caramelization and helps them hold their shape.

• Patties do not need to be cooked through at this stage—just seared.

Layering in the Slow Cooker:

1. Place patties in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer if possible.

2. Scatter sliced onions and optional mushrooms over the top.

Making the Gravy:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup until well combined.

2. Pour this mixture over the patties and vegetables in the slow cooker.

Final Cooking & Serving:

• Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours.

• About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker.

• Gently stir, cover again, and allow the gravy to thicken.

• Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles—perfect for soaking up every drop of that rich, mushroom-onion gravy.

For visual guides and plating ideas, check out this board of Salisbury steak recipes.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks

• Always brown the patties before adding to the slow cooker. This step builds flavor.

• Don’t overwork the meat mixture—mix just until combined.

• Layer thoughtfully: placing onions and mushrooms on top helps distribute flavor without steaming the patties.

• Use low heat to allow flavors to develop and meat to remain tender.

• Rest the patties a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.

Common Variations

Meat Variations:

• Use all ground beef for a richer flavor.

• Substitute ground chicken or plant-based meat for dietary needs.

• Try a pork and beef blend for a more robust taste.

Gravy Variations:

• Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream for a creamier texture.

• Substitute beef broth with mushroom broth for a vegetarian twist.

Flavor Additions:

• Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or a bay leaf.

• Incorporate smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicy version.

• Stir in soy sauce or Dijon mustard for a deeper savory note.

Explore more inspiration from these ground beef meal ideas that put a creative spin on classic flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Salisbury steaks pair wonderfully with:

• Mashed potatoes: Choose buttery or garlic-infused versions.

• Egg noodles: A classic base that absorbs the gravy well.

• White or brown rice: Ideal for soaking up every bite of gravy.

• Vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or peas for a colorful plate.

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls: Perfect for dipping into the onion mushroom gravy.

For family meal ideas, explore these easy slow cooker dinners that complement this hearty dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze patties in their gravy for up to 3 months. Place wax paper between layers if stacking.

• Reheating:

  • Stovetop: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat.

  • Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, covered, stirring gravy occasionally.

Tip: Add a splash of beef broth when reheating to loosen the gravy.

 Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

• Form patties a day ahead and refrigerate overnight.

• Brown and freeze the patties raw or cooked—then thaw and cook in slow cooker.

• Batch cook and portion into meal containers with rice or noodles for quick lunches.

This dish is ideal for busy schedules and meal prepping families. For more ideas, check out these family-friendly recipes.

 FAQs

What is the difference between Salisbury steak and hamburger steak?
While both use ground meat, Salisbury steak includes binders like egg and breadcrumbs and is always served with gravy, unlike the simpler hamburger steak.

Can I cook Salisbury steak in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can bake the patties in a covered dish at 350°F for 45 minutes, then add gravy and continue cooking until thickened.

How do I keep Salisbury steaks from falling apart?
Use the right ratio of meat to binder (breadcrumbs and egg), and avoid overmixing the meat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a certified gluten-free beef broth.

Do I need to brown the patties before slow cooking?
Browning adds depth of flavor and helps the patties stay firm—highly recommended for best results.

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