Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
This comforting classic is rich, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. Juicy seasoned beef patties slowly simmer in a creamy mushroom gravy until fork-tender—perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 packet (1.5 oz) dry onion soup mix
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup water (or beef broth for deeper flavor)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Season the Beef
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and dry onion soup mix. Using clean hands, gently mix until the seasoning is evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
2️⃣ Shape the Patties
Divide the beef mixture into 6–8 equal portions. Shape each into an oval patty about ¾ inch thick, pressing a slight indentation into the center of each to help them cook evenly.
3️⃣ Optional: Brown for Extra Flavor
For richer taste and color, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly brown the patties for 2–3 minutes per side. They don’t need to cook through—just develop a golden crust. (This step is optional but highly recommended.)
4️⃣ Arrange in Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange patties in a mostly single layer, overlapping slightly if necessary.
5️⃣ Prepare the Gravy
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and water until smooth and fully combined. The mixture will be thick but pourable.
6️⃣ Pour & Cover
Pour the gravy evenly over the patties, ensuring each one is coated and the sauce seeps between them. Use a spoon to spread it evenly if needed.
7️⃣ Slow Cook
LOW: 6–8 hours
HIGH: 3–4 hours
Cook until patties are fully cooked and very tender, and the gravy is thick and bubbling.
8️⃣ Final Seasoning
Taste the gravy and adjust with salt and black pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered egg noodles
Steamed white rice
Roasted vegetables
Spoon plenty of that rich mushroom gravy over the top!
Variations & Tips
✔️ Add breadcrumbs: Mix in ¼ cup plain dry breadcrumbs if using lean beef to help patties hold together.
✔️ Swap the soup: Try cream of chicken or cream of celery for a slightly different flavor.
✔️ Use beef broth: Replace water with broth for a more savory, pot-roast-style taste.
✔️ Thicker gravy:
Simmer uncovered on HIGH for 15–20 minutes, or
Stir in a slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water) and cook until thickened.
✔️ Add veggies: Layer sliced onions or mushrooms under the patties before adding the gravy.
✔️ Leftovers: Even better the next day! Store refrigerated up to 3–4 days and reheat gently.
