Introduction
usually with mashed potatoes and something green on the side. This slow cooker version makes it even better:
the patties stay juicy, the gravy becomes deep and velvety, and the whole dinner practically cooks itself.The best part is flexibility. You can keep it super easy with a pantry-style gravy base, or upgrade it with fresh mushrooms
and onions for a more homemade feel. Either way, you’ll end up with tender patties coated in flavorful gravy—perfect for
weeknights, meal prep, or cozy Sunday dinners.
Optional but worth it: A quick sear on the patties adds color and deeper flavor, but you can skip it if you’re in a hurry.
Ingredients
For the patties
- 2 lb (900 g) ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 onion, finely grated or minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 tsp dried thyme
- Optional for searing: 1 tbsp oil
For the gravy
- 1 can (10.5 oz / ~300 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) beef broth
- 8 oz (225 g) sliced mushrooms (optional but recommended)
- 1 small onion, sliced
Optional thickener
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
Note: Onion soup mix can be salty. If your broth is salted, taste the gravy near the end before adding extra salt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix and shape patties
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Mix gently just until combined (overmixing can make patties tough).
- Shape into 6 oval patties (about 2 cm thick).
Gentle mixing = tender patties: Use your hands and stop as soon as everything is evenly mixed.
Step 2 (Optional): Sear for color
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear patties 1–2 minutes per side (just for browning, not cooking through).
- Transfer to a plate.
