🥩 Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms (Mediterranean-Style, High-Protein)

A comforting, old-school diner classic made lighter and more Mediterranean-friendly. Tender beef patties simmer slowly with mushrooms and savory gravy until fork-tender and deeply flavorful — all in the crockpot.

This version keeps the cozy feel of traditional Salisbury steak while using wholesome ingredients and heart-healthy olive oil inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle.

🌿 Description

Juicy beef patties are layered with mushrooms and a simple gravy mixture, then slow-cooked until rich and savory. The mushrooms soak up the flavor while adding natural umami and extra nutrients.

It’s:

✔ High in protein
✔ Family-friendly
✔ Easy slow cooker meal
✔ Perfect for meal prep

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Beef Patties:

1½ lbs (700g) lean ground beef
1 egg
¼ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
2 tablespoons grated onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon sea salt

For the Slow Cooker:

2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion, sliced
1 packet (or 2 tablespoons) natural brown gravy mix
1½ cups low-sodium beef broth
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce for depth.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Patties

In a bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently and form into 4–6 oval patties.

(Optional but recommended: Quickly sear patties in olive oil for 2 minutes per side for added flavor.)

2️⃣ Layer in Slow Cooker

Place sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom.
Arrange patties on top.

3️⃣ Prepare the Gravy

Whisk gravy mix with beef broth and optional Dijon or Worcestershire.
Pour evenly over patties.

4️⃣ Slow Cook

Cook on:

Low: 6–7 hours
or
High: 3–4 hours

Patties should be tender and cooked through.

5️⃣ Serve

Spoon mushroom gravy over patties before serving.

🍽 Mediterranean Serving Ideas

Serve over mashed cauliflower or olive oil mashed potatoes
Pair with steamed green beans or roasted carrots
Serve alongside a simple tomato-cucumber salad
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness

🌱 Nutritional Benefits

Lean beef provides high-quality protein and iron
Mushrooms add antioxidants and fiber
Olive oil supports heart health
Balanced comfort food without heavy cream sauces

Approx. 30–35g protein per serving (depending on portion size).

❓ Q & A

Q1: Do I have to brown the patties first?

No, but browning enhances flavor and texture.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes — use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gravy mix.

Q3: How do I thicken the gravy?

Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir in during the last 20 minutes.

Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q5: What makes this Mediterranean-style?

Using olive oil, moderate portions of lean beef, mushrooms, and serving with vegetables keeps it aligned with Mediterranean eating principles.