Can you make Salisbury steaks in the crockpot without browning them first?

Yes, you can, but browning the patties first adds an incredible depth of flavor. It helps seal in the juices and gives the gravy a richer, caramelized taste. If you’re short on time, skip the browning step, but expect a lighter color and slightly milder flavor in your gravy.

What type of ground beef works best for Salisbury Steaks Crockpot?

Use 85% lean ground beef . It strikes the right balance between flavor and moisture. Leaner blends may dry out, while fattier ones can make the gravy oily.

How long should Salisbury steaks cook in the slow cooker?

Cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Slow cooking on low produces the most tender, flavorful results.

Can you add mushrooms or onions to the gravy?

Absolutely. Add sliced mushrooms or extra onions directly to the crockpot before pouring in the broth. They’ll cook down into the gravy and create a deep, savory flavor that complements the beef beautifully.

What sides go best with Salisbury steak?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or white rice , but roasted vegetables, green beans, or a crisp side salad also work perfectly for balance.

How do you thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

If the gravy is too thin at the end of cooking, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water , stir it into the gravy, and let it cook for another 15 minutes uncovered to reach your desired thickness.

Salisbury Steaks Crockpot – 5-Star Comfort Dinner You’ll Love

Name: Salisbury Steaks Crockpot
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef (85% lean); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp olive oil

Description

Salisbury Steaks Crockpot delivers tender beef patties simmered in rich brown gravy — a hearty, comforting classic perfect for family dinners and cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef (85% lean)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 large egg

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups beef broth

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.

2. Shape the mixture into oval patties, about 3/4 inch thick.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown patties lightly on both sides for 1–2 minutes per side.

4. Transfer browned patties to the crockpot in gentle layers.

5. In a bowl, whisk flour into beef broth until smooth and pour the mixture over the patties.

6. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until patties are tender and cooked through.

7. Serve hot with gravy over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.

Notes

For richer flavor, brown the patties before adding to the crockpot.

Add sliced mushrooms or onions to the gravy for an earthy twist.

Store leftovers with gravy for up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

Thicken gravy with a cornstarch slurry if needed near the end of cooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy
Calories: 380
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: Salisbury Steaks Crockpot, slow cooker Salisbury steak, crockpot beef recipe, comfort food