Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is classic comfort food at its best. Made with tender homemade beef patties, slow-cooked onions, and a rich, savory gravy, this dish delivers deep flavor with very little effort. It’s the kind of hearty dinner that brings everyone to the table and makes leftovers something to look forward to.

Perfect for busy days, this recipe lets the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that feels like it’s been simmering all day—because it has.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 large white onion, sliced

• 2 cans (10 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup

• 3/4 cup water

• 1 packet (1 oz) au jus mix

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion soup mix, and dried thyme. Mix gently until just combined. Shape the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties.

Step 2: Layer the Slow Cooker

Place the sliced onions evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base and prevents sticking.

Step 3: Brown the Patties

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly dredge each patty in flour, shaking off excess. Brown the patties on both sides until a golden crust forms. They do not need to be fully cooked.

Step 4: Assemble

Arrange the browned patties on top of the onions in the slow cooker, stacking them slightly if necessary.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, water, and au jus mix until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the patties.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, or until the patties are tender and fully cooked and the gravy has thickened.

Tips for Best Results

• Do not overmix the beef to keep patties tender

• Browning the patties adds flavor and helps them hold shape

• Slice onions thinly so they soften fully during cooking

• If gravy is too thick, add a small splash of water at the end

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed potatoes

• Egg noodles

• Rice

• Buttered green beans or peas

• Biscuits or dinner rolls

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave

• This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is a reliable, comforting meal that never goes out of style. Simple ingredients, rich gravy, and fork-tender beef make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed family meal, it’s always a winner.