Crockpot Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

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Description

Crockpot Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms is a comforting old-school diner classic made with tender seasoned beef patties, sliced mushrooms, onions, and rich brown gravy. Slow cooking allows the patties to become tender while the mushrooms and onions soak up the savory gravy. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes for an easy, hearty family dinner.

Full Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours on LOW or 2½–3½ hours on HIGH
Total Time: About 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1½–2 lbs ground beef
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 packet brown gravy mix
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. Form the patties: Divide the ground beef into 4–6 portions and shape each into an oval patty. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
  2. Prepare the crockpot: Scatter half of the sliced mushrooms and onions across the bottom of the slow cooker.
  3. Add the patties: Carefully place the beef patties over the mushrooms and onions. Arrange the remaining mushrooms and onions around and over the patties.
  4. Make the gravy: In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup until smooth.
  5. Add the gravy: Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the beef patties, mushrooms, and onions.
  6. Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2½–3½ hours, until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  7. Thicken the gravy: For a thicker diner-style gravy, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to make a smooth slurry. Stir it directly into the crockpot during the final 15–20 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan, whisk in the slurry, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  8. Serve: Carefully place the Salisbury steak patties on plates and spoon plenty of mushroom and onion gravy over the top.

🍽️ Best Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Buttered green beans
  • Egg noodles
  • Rice
  • Roasted carrots
  • Steamed vegetables
  • Dinner rolls

Notes

  • Use ground beef with some fat for more tender and flavorful patties.
  • Don’t overcrowd the patties when shaping them; keep them thick enough to remain juicy during slow cooking.
  • White button or cremini mushrooms both work well.
  • If you prefer extra gravy, increase the beef broth slightly and adjust the gravy mix according to its package directions.
  • Always check the internal temperature of the thickest patty before serving.

Tips for the Best Salisbury Steak

Don’t overwork the beef: Gently shape the patties rather than compacting them too tightly.

Layer the mushrooms: Placing mushrooms underneath and over the patties allows them to cook evenly and absorb the savory gravy.

For richer flavor: Brown the patties in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This is optional but gives the beef a deeper, more developed flavor.

For extra-thick gravy: Use the cornstarch slurry near the end rather than adding cornstarch directly to the crockpot.

Let the gravy settle: Give the dish a few minutes after cooking before serving so the gravy can thicken slightly.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving, based on 6 servings:

  • Calories: ~390 kcal
  • Protein: ~29 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15 g
  • Fat: ~24 g
  • Saturated Fat: ~9 g
  • Fiber: ~2 g
  • Sugar: ~4 g
  • Sodium: ~850–1,000 mg

Nutrition is an estimate and varies depending on the ground beef, gravy mix, and other ingredients used.

Benefits

  • Good source of protein: Ground beef provides protein needed for maintaining muscles and supporting everyday energy.
  • Mushrooms add nutrients: Mushrooms provide fiber and several vitamins and minerals.
  • Satisfying meal: The combination of beef, mushrooms, gravy, and a hearty side makes a filling dinner.
  • Easy slow-cooker preparation: Once everything is assembled, the crockpot does most of the work.
  • Family-friendly: The savory brown gravy makes this an easy meal for the whole family to enjoy.

Recipe Q&A

Can I brown the patties before slow cooking?
Yes. Browning them in a hot skillet for a few minutes per side adds extra flavor and color.

Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Fresh mushrooms are best for texture, but frozen mushrooms can work. They may release more liquid while cooking.

Why is my gravy too thin?
Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir the slurry into the crockpot during the final 15–20 minutes. The gravy should thicken as it heats.

Can I make Salisbury steak without mushrooms?
Absolutely. Simply leave them out or replace them with additional sliced onions.

Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Make sure the patties reach the appropriate safe internal temperature.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. The patties can be shaped and refrigerated ahead of time. You can also prepare the gravy ingredients in advance.

How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently with some of the gravy to keep the patties moist.

What is the best side for Salisbury steak?
Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic choice because they soak up the rich mushroom gravy beautifully.

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