Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak: A Nostalgic Comfort Food Made Easy
Tonight marks the third time I’ll be preparing this delightful recipe, and I can’t get enough of it—the sauce is simply irresistible. If you’re looking to recreate the comforting essence of classic Salisbury steak, reminiscent of cherished childhood memories, this slow cooker version is your go-to. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, allowing the slow cooker to do the heavy lifting while you focus on other tasks. Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to suit your personal tastes. Follow these steps to create a heartwarming and delicious Salisbury steak in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup minced onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
For the Gravy:
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 6 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 package brown gravy mix
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Preparation
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the patties. Shape the mixture into small, thick patties, approximately 3/4 inch in thickness.
2. Layer the Vegetables:
Place the sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a flavorful base.
3. Brown the Patties:
For enhanced flavor, brown the patties on both sides in a skillet. Once browned, layer them over the onions and mushrooms in the slow cooker. (You can also skip the browning step and place the raw patties directly in the slow cooker, though browning adds depth to the flavor.)
4. Prepare the Gravy:
In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, gravy mix, and optional ingredients like ketchup and Dijon mustard. Pour this mixture over the patties and vegetables in the slow cooker.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Thicken the Gravy:
Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the patties from the slow cooker. Switch the setting to high, and whisk in the cornstarch to thicken the gravy.
7. Final Touch:
Return the patties to the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated with the rich, thickened gravy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your slow cooker Salisbury steak is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve it with your favorite sides and savor the nostalgic, comforting flavors of this classic dish.
This slow cooker Salisbury steak recipe is not only delicious and easy to prepare but also brings back the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal. It’s perfect for those seeking a hearty, nostalgic dinner without the hassle.