Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is the ultimate comfort meal—rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Juicy beef patties are lightly browned, then slowly simmered in a creamy, onion-filled gravy until they’re fork-tender and packed with flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making this a stress-free dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
This crockpot version keeps the nostalgic appeal of classic Salisbury steak while making it easier than ever. It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for busy days when you want a comforting home-cooked meal waiting for you.
Who Is This Recipe For?
- Busy families who love set-it-and-forget-it meals
- Anyone craving classic comfort food with minimal effort
- Home cooks looking for budget-friendly dinner ideas
- Fans of slow cooker recipes that deliver big flavor
Why It’s Great
- Made with affordable, everyday ingredients
- Slow cooking keeps the beef tender and juicy
- Rich, creamy gravy with deep onion flavor
- Easy to prep ahead and perfect for weeknights
- Pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 (1-oz) packet onion soup mix
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 white onion, thinly sliced
- 2 (10-oz each) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup water
- 1 (1-oz) packet au jus mix
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
- Make the Patties
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion soup mix, and dried thyme until just combined. Shape into 8 evenly sized patties. - Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spread the sliced onions evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker. - Brown the Patties
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly dredge each patty in flour, then brown on both sides (about 2 minutes per side). This adds flavor and helps thicken the gravy later. - Layer Everything
Place the browned patties on top of the onions in the slow cooker, stacking them slightly if needed. - Make the Gravy
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, water, and au jus mix until smooth. Pour evenly over the patties. - Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fully cooked and tender.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave
- This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, but choose a slightly higher-fat turkey to keep the patties moist.
Do I have to brown the patties first?
Browning adds flavor and structure, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead?
Absolutely—cream of mushroom works beautifully and adds extra depth.
What should I serve with Salisbury steak?
Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or buttered green beans are all great options.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With tender beef patties, rich gravy, and hands-off cooking, this recipe delivers classic flavor with modern convenience. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out—and one your family will ask for again and again.
