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Savory Slow Cooker Steak

Finished Salisbury steaks in thick gravy
Get ready to enjoy Savory Slow Cooker Steak, a comforting meal that turns simple ingredients like ground beef, onions, and mushrooms into a delicious, slow-simmered delight.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Serving Size 6

Ingredients

Sliced Mushrooms (170g / ~6 oz)

  • Adds earthy depth to the dish.

Onion (½, thinly sliced)

  • Sweetens as it slowly cooks enhancing the gravy.

Beef Broth (360ml / ~1½ cups, low-sodium)

  • Forms the flavorful base for the sauce.

Brown Gravy Mix (1 packet / ~28g / ~1 oz)

  • Quickly enriches the broth with a homemade-style thickness.

Ketchup (2 tbsp)

  • Brings a hint of sweetness and tang.

Dijon Mustard (1 tsp)

  • Adds a subtle sharp zing that balances the sauce.

Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped)

  • Brightens the overall taste and appearance.

Cornstarch (2 tbsp) + Water (4 tbsp)

  • Thickens the sauce once the slow cooking is done.

Beef Patties

Lean Ground Beef (680g / ~1.5 lb)

  • Low grease still juicy, perfect for Salisbury steak patties.

Egg Yolk (1 large)

  • Binds the meat mixture for a tender yet firm patty.

Minced Onion (¼ cup / ~40g)

  • Adds flavor and moisture from within.

Panko Breadcrumbs (⅓ cup / ~15g)

  • Helps the patties hold together without being dense.

Milk (3 tbsp / ~45ml)

  • Keeps the patties moist.

Minced Garlic (1 clove)

  • Elevates the savory taste with mild pungency.

Salt & Pepper (to taste)

  • Essential seasonings for patties.

Instructions

Layer Mushrooms & Onions

  • Scatter mushrooms and onion slices at the bottom of your slow cooker.

Form & Brown Patties

  • In a bowl, combine ground beef, egg yolk, minced onion, breadcrumbs, milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Shape into six equal patties.
  • Over medium-high heat, sear each patty for ~3 minutes on each side until golden—this locks in flavor.

Build the Sauce

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, brown gravy mix, ketchup, and Dijon mustard.
  • Place browned patties on top of the mushrooms and onions in the slow cooker.
  • Pour the sauce mixture over the patties, covering them mostly.

Set & Cook

  • Cover and cook on Low for about 5 hours.
  • Once done, remove patties.

Thicken the Gravy

  • Switch to High.
  • Stir cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then whisk into the sauce.
  • Let it simmer until thickened (a few minutes).

Final Touch

  • Return patties to the thickened gravy, turning them to coat.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness.

Notes

Important Tip: Brown the Patties before slow cooking to build a deeper flavor and keep them from crumbling.
Gluten-Free Swap: Use a gluten-free gravy mix and breadcrumbs (or crushed GF crackers).
Serving Suggestions: Pair with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed rice—whatever comfort side you prefer.