Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak with Creamy Onion Gravy

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak with Creamy Onion Gravy is the ultimate comfort food. Tender beef patties are slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful onion gravy, resulting in a hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Serve this dish over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice to soak up all the delicious gravy.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Salisbury Steak

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1/3 cup bread crumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)

For Creamy Onion Gravy

• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salisbury Steaks

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Brown the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the patties to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the onion gravy over the Salisbury steak patties in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Slow Cook

1. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the patties are cooked through and tender.
2. If you prefer a thicker gravy, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve the Salisbury steaks hot with the creamy onion gravy, over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Browning the Patties: Browning the patties before adding them to the slow cooker adds extra flavor to the dish. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thin, use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it. For a thinner gravy, simply omit the cornstarch.
• Onions: Use yellow or sweet onions for the best flavor in the gravy.

Variations

• Mushroom Gravy Salisbury Steak: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the onions for a mushroom variation.
• Spicy Salisbury Steak: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
• Herbed Salisbury Steak: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or thyme to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, and the cooking time may need slight adjustments.

2. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

3. Can I Freeze Salisbury Steak?

Yes, you can freeze Salisbury steak. Let the cooked patties and gravy cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What Can I Serve with Salisbury Steak?

Salisbury steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, for a complete meal.

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak with Creamy Onion Gravy is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The tender beef patties and rich, flavorful gravy are sure to be a hit with the whole family. Serve it over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice for a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Happy cooking!