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This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak isn’t just easy—it’s everything you want in a comforting, home-cooked meal. Tender beef patties simmer in a rich, flavorful gravy with onions and mushrooms, all made right in the slow cooker with minimal effort. It’s the kind of no-fuss, stick-to-your-ribs dinner that brings everyone to the table (and keeps them coming back for seconds).
Homemade Salisbury Steak in Crock Pot
This is one of those meals that has been on our family table for years—whether it was after ball practice, on a busy weeknight, or part of a cozy Sunday supper, I always knew it would bring everyone running to the kitchen. With over 30 years in the kitchen (and feeding a hungry crew), I know the value of having a few go-to dinners that you can count on.
This slow cooker Salisbury steak is exactly that: simple to make, full of rich, comforting flavor, and always a hit with the whole family. I’ve tested, tweaked, and fine-tuned it over time so you don’t have to. And it gets rave reviews every single time. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or need a no-stress dinner that brings everyone to the table, this one checks all the boxes.
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Ingredients
- Mushrooms – White button or baby bella mushrooms both work well. Slice them as thick or thin as you like—they’ll soak up all that savory gravy flavor!
- Sweet Onion – A sliced sweet onion adds natural sweetness and depth to the dish. Yellow onions work, too, if that’s what you have on hand.
- Beef Broth – Use a good-quality broth or stock for the best flavor base. If using low sodium, you can adjust the salt later if needed.
- Brown Gravy Mix – A pantry shortcut that brings instant savory goodness. Choose your favorite brand and opt for one you already love the flavor of.
- Ketchup – Adds a little tangy sweetness that rounds out the richness of the gravy.
- Dijon Mustard – Just a touch for balance—it doesn’t taste “mustardy” but adds a delicious savory note.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami and that signature Salisbury steak flavor. A little goes a long way!
- Parsley – Fresh or dried, both work great! Fresh gives a pop of brightness if you have it.
- Ground Beef – I recommend using lean ground beef (around 85–90% lean) so the patties hold together without being too greasy in the slow cooker.
- Panko Crumbs – These keep the patties light and tender. Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
- Egg Yolk – Acts as a binder for the patties and adds richness.
- Milk – Moistens the mixture so the patties stay juicy. Whole milk or even half-and-half for extra richness.
- Onion Powder – A little bit of extra flavor to support the fresh onions without overpowering.
- Garlic Salt – Lawry’s is my favorite for this recipe, as it adds a great blend of garlic and seasoning.
- Black Pepper – Freshly cracked is always best for that little kick.
- Cornstarch + Cold Water – This slurry is what thickens the gravy at the end—don’t skip it if you want that rich, velvety texture!
- Gravy Master or Kitchen Bouquet (optional) – Totally optional, but great if you want a darker, richer-looking gravy.
How To Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak With Gravy
Step 1 | Make the Patties
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, panko, egg yolk, milk, and seasonings until combined. Don’t overmix—just enough so everything holds together.
Then, form the mixture into 6 round patties and set aside.
Step 2 | Brown the Patties
In a skillet over medium-high heat (or using the sauté function on your slow cooker if it has one), sear the patties on both sides until browned. You’re not fully cooking them—just getting that nice caramelized outside. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3 | Mix the Gravy
In a bowl or large measuring cup, stir together the beef broth, gravy mix, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire, and parsley.
Give it a good whisk so it’s nice and smooth. Set aside while you layer everything in the slow cooker.
Step 4 | Build the Layers
Add the sliced mushrooms and onions to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Then layer the browned patties right on top. Pour the gravy mixture evenly over everything, making sure the patties are coated.
Step 5 | Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours until the patties are tender and cooked through and the gravy is rich and flavorful.
Step 6 | Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry.
Gently move the patties to one side of the slow cooker, then stir in the slurry to thicken the gravy.
If you want a richer color, add in a splash of Gravy Master or Kitchen Bouquet at this point. Move the patties back into the gravy and stir to coat.
Step 7 | Let It All Come Together
Replace the lid and let the gravy thicken for about 10 to 15 minutes on the warm setting or low heat. Then it’s ready to serve!
Step 8 | Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the patties and gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper if you’d like, and enjoy a plate full of comfort!
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Variations
- Gluten-Free Friendly
Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers, and make sure your gravy mix and Worcestershire sauce are labeled gluten-free. You still get all the comfort with none of the gluten! - Low-Carb Swap
For a lower-carb version, replace the panko with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Then serve it over mashed cauliflower or roasted veggies for a cozy, guilt-free plate. - Rich & Savory with Red Wine
Add a splash of red wine to the gravy mixture for a deep, rich flavor. It elevates the whole dish while still keeping things simple. - Ground Turkey or Chicken
For a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It’s still hearty and comforting, just a little lighter. Just make sure to keep the breadcrumbs and egg yolk in to help hold everything together. - Veggie Boost
Add sliced carrots, green beans, or baby potatoes right under the patties. They’ll cook right in that savory gravy and soak up all the flavor—plus, it makes dinner even easier with fewer dishes. - Herb It Up
Toss in a pinch of dried thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika to bring a new flavor twist to the gravy. A little goes a long way, but the result is next-level cozy. - Creamy Gravy Twist
After thickening the gravy, stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream. It gives the gravy a rich, velvety finish—think Salisbury meets stroganoff! - Mini Patties for Little Eaters
Form the patties smaller—almost like sliders or meatballs. They cook a bit quicker and are easier for kiddos to handle, plus they’re just fun to eat. - Melted Cheese on Top
Just before serving, lay a slice of provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella over each patty and let it melt right into the hot gravy. It’s melty, gooey goodness that takes comfort food to the next level.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
When it comes to Salisbury steak, you really want something cozy and comforting to go alongside it—something to soak up all that savory, rich gravy. My Creamy Mashed Potatoes are hands down the perfect match. If you’re looking to change things up a bit, serving it over my Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese or Squash Casserole is a great choice.
For a simpler option, Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli adds a little crunch and depth, while Sweet Southern Green Beans provide that slow-cooked, Southern-style side that always hits the spot.
And, of course, no comforting meal is complete without something warm from the oven—Homemade Dinner Rolls or Butter Swim Biscuits are just the thing for swiping through every last bit of gravy on the plate.
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Make-Ahead Tips for Salisbury Steak
This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead, whether you’re planning for a busy weeknight or stocking the freezer for later. You can make the patties in advance; just shape them and store them in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you’re short on time the day of, you can also brown the patties ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to load up the slow cooker.
The gravy mixture can be stirred together the night before and stored in a jar or container in the fridge—just give it a quick stir before pouring it over the patties.
If you’re really planning ahead, the entire cooked meal freezes well. Allow everything to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container with plenty of gravy to keep it moist. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently when ready to serve.
Whether you’re prepping part of it ahead or the whole thing, this is one of those meals that works around your schedule—and still tastes like it simmered all day. (Because, well… it did!)
How to Store Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak With Gravy
How to store: Let the Salisbury steak and gravy cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Be sure to include plenty of gravy in the container to keep everything moist and flavorful.
To Reheat
You can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just spoon a little extra gravy over the top to keep things moist, and cover loosely to prevent drying out. For larger portions, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. If the gravy has thickened up a bit in the fridge, just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it back up.
What to Do with Leftovers
Leftovers make the best easy lunch or even another dinner later in the week. Serve the patties over toast for an open-faced hot sandwich, tuck them into a hoagie roll for a Salisbury steak sandwich, or chop them up and stir into leftover mashed potatoes or rice for a quick skillet meal.
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Slow Cook Salisbury Steak
Ingredients
- 8 ounces slices mushrooms, (or to taste)
- 1 small sweet onion, sliced (or to taste)
Broth / Gravy Mixture
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 package brown gravy mix
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley, (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
Salisbury Steak Patty Mixture
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- ½ cup panko crumbs
- 1 egg yolk
- ¼ cup milk
- ⅓ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt, (I use Lawry's)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Slurry Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Optional
- 1 teaspoon gravy master, (or kitchen bouquet) to deepen the color, optional
Instructions
- Prep Ground Beef Patties: In a bowl, combine the ground beef mixture: lean ground beef, panko crumbs, egg, yolk, milk, onion powder, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Then, form 6 round patties.
- In a skillet, over medium-high heat (or in the slow cooker if it has a sauté function), brown the patties. You are not cooking them; you are just getting a nice sear on the outside. Remove beef patties and set aside.
- Make Gravy: In a bowl, combine the gravy mixture ingredients: beef broth, brown gravy mix, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Set aside.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Layer mushrooms and onion slices on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Then add patties to the top.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the mushrooms, onions, and ground beef patties. Move around until coated in gravy.
- Slow Cook: Place on lid and cook for 5-6 hours on low.
- Thicken with Cornstarch Slurry: After cooking is complete. Mix the cornstarch and water to make the slurry mixture. Move patties to one side of the slow cooker. Pour in the cornstarch slurry and stir around to thicken.
- If you would like to deepen the color of the gravy, add in a teaspoon (or desired amount) of gravy master or kitchen bouquet (this is optional).
- Move patties back into the gravy and stir to coat with gravy. Replace the lid and let the gravy thicken for 10-15 minutes or until ready to serve.
- Serve: Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with chopped parsley and cracked black pepper and enjoy.
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Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Soulfully Made is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
©️Soulfully Made
if I bump up to 2lbs beef should I adjust the seasonings? How much of each if I do?
I have not tested, but honestly I think this mix would be fine with 2 lbs.
It looks just like the picture and tastes sooo good!!
Pat, that is wonderful to hear! I am so glad you enjoyed it!
Hi! Do I cook the meat in the skillet until it’s done all the way through? Or do I just brown it and it will cook the rest of the way in the crock pot? Thank you!
Just brown them and they will finish cooking in the crock pot. 🙂
If I were using Multi-function cooker, would you do pressure or slow cooker feature?
I used the slow cooker feature for this recipe. I hope you enjoy it! Blessings, Nikki
You know I’m not sure I’ve had Salisbury steak (not a British thing) but this looks great so might have to finally get round to it!
This is amazing! I love how easy it is to make!
Thank you so much Carolyn! It is so easy and very tasty too! I am so glad you stopped in! Come back and see me soon!
I adore Salisbury Steak! I love that you made it in the slow cooker and that gravy looks to die for!
Thank you so much Serena! I love it too! The slow cooker makes it so easy to make! That gravy is so good. Sometimes I am tempted to double it just to have extra 😉
This salisbury steak looks delicious!!
Thank you so much Jocelyn! It’s such an easy dish too! <3
mushroom gravy is my fav!
I agree! The more mushrooms the better!
some great slow cooker comfort food here!
Thank you David! It’s that time of year for comfort food! Thanks for stopping by!
Printed the recipe and I’m making it this week. Looks AMAZING!
Thank you so much Debra, that makes my day! I would love to hear how you it goes!
This is such a delicious looking plate! I esp love that it’s slow-cooker.
Thank you so much Nichole! I love making it in the slow cooker. I have had mine out a lot lately!
I can’t wait to make this for my father in law. Believe it or not I have never had salisbury steak but it looks so good!
Thank you so much Denise! It’s so easy to make! A very rich and delicious meal! I hope he loves it! I would love to hear how it goes!
Nikki
Salisbury Steak is one of my favorite comfort food recipes! I can’t wait to try it in my slow cooker.
Arlene I hope you love it! Please let me know what you think!!
So fabulous served over mashed potatoes. Comfort food at its finest.
I love it over mashed potatoes best too! <3