Hey there! Wanna hear about a dish that’s become a bit of a family favorite at our house? It’s this Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak recipe that I stumbled upon when I was trying to impress my in-laws (spoiler alert: it worked!). Picture a chilly Sunday afternoon, everyone lounging about, and this delicious aroma wafting through the house. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—cheesy, I know, but totally true.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Whenever I want to make something that feels special but doesn’t require me to be glued to the stove, this is my go-to. My family practically does a happy dance when they know it’s on the menu (okay, mostly just me, but they’d join if they knew what was good for them!). And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself while you binge-watch your favorite show?
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (I sometimes swap this with ground turkey when I’m feeling a bit healthier, but honestly, beef is the way to go for full flavor)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (my grandma swore by homemade, but the store-bought kind is just fine)
- 1 egg
- 1 package brown gravy mix (I’ve tried making my own, but the mix is a lifesaver)
- 1 cup water
- Optional: Mushrooms, if you’re feeling fancy
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and egg in a bowl. Don’t be afraid to get in there with your hands—it’s messy, but it’s the best way.
- Form the mixture into patties. This is where I usually sneak a taste just to make sure everything’s perfectly seasoned.
- In the slow cooker, mix the gravy mix with water. Add the patties in. Layer them gently so they don’t stick together.
- Add mushrooms on top if using (I think it adds a nice touch, but mushrooms aren’t everyone’s cup of tea).
- Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours. Don’t worry if it looks a bit weird at this stage—it always does!
Notes
I found out the hard way that adding too much water makes the gravy sad and runny. Less is more here! And if you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers work in a pinch.
Variations
Once, I tried adding bell peppers, thinking they’d add a sweet crunch. They didn’t; it was more ‘soggy’ than ‘crunchy.’ But hey, we live and learn! On the flip side, adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce was a hit!
Equipment
I use my trusty slow cooker, but any crockpot will do. And if you don’t have a slow cooker, I’ve heard an oven on low works too (but I haven’t tried it myself yet).
Storage Information
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—though honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day!
Serving Suggestions
We love serving this with mashed potatoes or over a bed of egg noodles. My kids swear it’s the best when paired with a side of steamed green beans. But you do you!
Pro Tips
I once tried rushing the browning step and regretted it because the patties fell apart. So take your time! Also, don’t skip the tasting—a little seasoning adjustment can go a long way.
FAQ
Can I freeze leftovers? Sure thing! They freeze well for up to 2 months. Just make sure you cool them completely first.
Do I need to brown the patties first? It’s not essential, but it does add a nice depth of flavor. But if you’re in a rush, skip it and nobody will notice!
Can I use cornstarch instead of a gravy packet? You can, but I find the packet gives it that classic taste we all crave.