Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak: Tender, Savory, and Wrapped in Rich Mushroom Gravy


 

How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Patties

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Ground beef

  • Breadcrumbs

  • Milk

  • Egg

  • Minced onion

  • Garlic

  • Worcestershire sauce

  • Salt and pepper

Mix gently until just combined. Form into oval patties, about ¾–1 inch thick.

Step 2: Brown the Patties (Optional but Recommended)

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil.
Brown each patty on both sides for 2–3 minutes.

Why brown? It adds flavor depth and helps the patties hold their shape in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place sliced onions and mushrooms in the bottom of the crockpot.
Lay the browned patties on top.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Whisk together:

  • Beef broth

  • Onion soup mix

  • Ketchup

  • Mustard

Pour this mixture over the patties.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook for:

  • 6–7 hours on LOW
    or

  • 3–4 hours on HIGH

During cooking, the flavors blend, the patties become tender, and the gravy takes shape.

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy

About 30 minutes before serving:

  • Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry

  • Stir it into the gravy

Let the slow cooker finish cooking until the gravy is thickened and glossy.

How to Serve Salisbury Steak

This dish is delicious with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes

  • Egg noodles

  • Buttered rice

  • Roasted or steamed vegetables

  • Dinner rolls to soak up extra gravy

The mushroom gravy is rich, savory, and perfect for draping over your sides as well.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

  • Avoid overmixing the meat to prevent dense patties.

  • Use 80/20 beef for the best juiciness.

  • Add extra mushrooms for a more robust, earthy gravy.

  • Let the gravy thicken fully—it makes all the difference.

  • Double the recipe if you want leftovers; it reheats beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak with mushroom gravy is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. It’s classic comfort food—simple ingredients transforming into extraordinary flavor through the magic of slow cooking. The tender beef patties, savory mushroom gravy, and effortless preparation make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.