Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Poor Man’s Steak

 


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Shape the Patties

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and dry onion soup mix.

  2. Gently work the seasoning through with clean hands, being careful not to overmix.

  3. Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions and shape each into an oval patty about ¾ inch thick. Press the centers slightly so they cook evenly.

Optional: Lightly brown the patties in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side for extra flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

  1. Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker.

  2. Arrange the patties in a single layer, slightly overlapping if needed, keeping them mostly even.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and water until smooth and pourable.

  2. Pour the mixture evenly over the patties, nudging it around with a spatula so all patties are coated.

Step 4: Cook

  1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.

  2. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until patties are cooked through and very tender.

  3. The gravy should be thick, glossy, and gently bubbling.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.

  2. Serve the patties hot, spooning plenty of gravy over each portion.

  3. For a complete meal, serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, with a side of vegetables.

Tips & Variations

  • For firmer patties: Mix ¼ cup plain dry breadcrumbs into the beef.

  • Substitute soup: Cream of chicken or cream of celery can be used.

  • Richer gravy: Replace water with beef broth.

  • Thicker gravy: Simmer on HIGH with the lid cracked or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

  • Extra vegetables: Layer sliced onions or mushrooms under patties.

  • Leftovers: Flavors deepen overnight; patties become even more tender.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze fully cooked patties in gravy up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

General Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus optional browning)

  • Cook Time: 3–8 hours depending on heat setting

  • Servings: 4–6

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Cuisine Style: Classic American comfort

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use leaner ground beef?
A: Yes, but consider adding breadcrumbs to help the patties hold together.

Q: Can I cook this in the oven?
A: Yes! Brown patties, place in a casserole dish, pour gravy over, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 45–60 minutes.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely. Sliced onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers under the patties work well.

Q: How do I thicken the gravy?
A: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir into simmering gravy until thickened.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Poor Man’s Steak is proof that humble ingredients can create meals that feel indulgent.

Tender, flavorful patties, rich mushroom gravy, and minimal effort make it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a comforting Sunday supper.

Pair with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, add a simple vegetable side, and you’ve got a meal that’s nostalgic, filling, and heartwarming — just like grandma used to make.

Let’s Make It Interactive!

Try it out and leave a review — did you add mushrooms under the patties? Swap soups? Serve it over noodles or mashed potatoes?