Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak: A Comforting Classic Reimagined

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Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that’ll transport you straight to comfort food heaven. This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is the ultimate solution for a hearty, flavor-packed dinner that practically cooks itself.

Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 500g beef mince | 1.1 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 large egg
  • 60ml finely diced onion | 1/4 cup diced onion
  • 60ml fresh breadcrumbs | 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)

For the Base:

  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 225g button mushrooms, sliced | 8 oz mushrooms

For the Gravy:

  • 500ml beef stock | 2 cups beef stock
  • 1 packet brown gravy mix (30g)
  • 2 tbsp tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp cornflour | 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tbsp cold water (if using cornflour)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, gently combine beef mince, egg, diced onion, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Mix just until ingredients are incorporated – avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
  2. Shape and Brown: Form the mixture into 4 thick, oval patties. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Brown the patties on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side, creating a beautiful caramelized exterior.
  3. Prepare Slow Cooker: Layer sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a flavorful bed for the patties.
  4. Add Patties: Carefully place the browned patties on top of the vegetables.
  5. Create Gravy: In a jug, whisk together beef stock, gravy mix, tomato sauce, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
  6. Slow Cook: Pour the gravy mixture over the patties and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours until patties are incredibly tender and cooked through.
  7. Thicken Gravy (Optional): For a thicker gravy, mix cornflour with cold water to create a smooth paste. Stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  8. Serve: Plate the patties with abundant mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.

Quick Recipe Details

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

Nutrition Highlights

A protein-packed meal that balances lean beef with nutrient-rich vegetables. The slow cooking method ensures maximum flavor and tenderness while keeping the dish relatively healthy.

Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try using fresh herbs instead of dried, and consider using homemade beef stock if available.