Description
Craving a comforting, classic dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a heartwarming Valentine’s Day meal? Slow Cooker Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is your answer! Adapted from the original stovetop recipe, this slow cooker version features juicy ground beef patties seasoned with Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and onion powder, slow-cooked in a rich, savory onion gravy made with beef broth and caramelized onions.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef (1 lb, 80/20 preferred):
- Why it’s important: Provides a juicy, flavorful base for the patties.
- Substitutions: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for vegetarian (adjust cooking time slightly for leaner meats).
- Breadcrumbs (â…“ cup):
- Why it’s important: Binds the patties and adds texture.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or oats.
- Large Egg (1):
- Why it’s important: Helps bind the patties and keeps them moist.
- Substitutions: Flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for vegan.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds umami and savory depth to the patties.
- Substitutions: Soy sauce, tamari (gluten-free), or balsamic vinegar.
- Garlic Powder (½ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the patties with savory, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: 1 minced garlic clove or ¼ tsp garlic paste.
- Onion Powder (½ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the onion flavor in the patties.
- Substitutions: ¼ cup finely grated onion or ½ tsp onion flakes.
- Salt (to taste, about ½ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the patties and gravy.
- Substitutions: Sea salt or kosher salt.
- Black Pepper (to taste, about ¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild heat and depth.
- Substitutions: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne.
- Large Yellow Onion (1, thinly sliced, ~2 cups):
- Why it’s important: Creates a sweet, savory base for the gravy.
- Substitutions: White onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder (mixed with gravy).
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Thickens the gravy for a silky texture.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free flour, cornstarch (1 tbsp), or arrowroot powder.
- Beef Broth (2 cups):
- Why it’s important: Forms the rich, savory base of the gravy.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth, chicken broth, or water with a bouillon cube.
- Butter or Oil (2 tbsp, for searing and sautéing):
- Why it’s important: Used for searing patties and sautéing onions.
- Substitutions: Olive oil, avocado oil, or vegan butter.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, optional, for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Substitutions: Chives, cilantro, or omit.
Additional for Slow Cooker:
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Prevents sticking in the slow cooker.
- Substitutions: Vegetable oil or avocado oil.
Tip: Use an 80/20 beef blend for juicy patties, and slice onions thinly for faster caramelization. Choose a high-quality beef broth for a richer gravy.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
- In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, ⅓ cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spatula just until combined to avoid tough patties. Form into 4 oval-shaped patties, about ½ inch thick.
- Heat 1 tbsp butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for 3–4 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through (the slow cooker will finish cooking). Remove and set aside.
- Tip: Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing, and sear in batches to ensure a golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Onions
- In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp butter or oil and 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced. Cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown.
- Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the onions and stir for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet while cooking onions for extra flavor, and add a pinch of sugar if onions need more caramelization.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the seared patties in a single layer in the slow cooker.
- Pour the onion gravy mixture evenly over the patties, ensuring they are mostly covered.
- Tip: If the gravy seems too thick, add an extra ¼ cup broth to ensure enough liquid for slow cooking.
Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the patties are cooked through (160°F/71°C internally) and tender.
- Check doneness early with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
- Tip: If the gravy thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth or water before serving to achieve a pourable consistency.
Step 5: Serve
- Carefully remove the patties from the slow cooker and place on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Spoon the onion gravy generously over the patties.
- Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional) for a vibrant finish.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, with a side of green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple salad.
- Tip: Let the patties rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to retain juices, and serve with extra gravy on the side for dipping.
