If you’re craving a comforting, wholesome meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Slow-Cooked Turkey Salisbury Steak Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. It takes classic Salisbury steak and makes it lighter and just as satisfying by using lean ground turkey, all slow-cooked to tender, juicy perfection in a savory mushroom and onion gravy. Perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want that homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish combines simplicity and rich flavor in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each one plays an essential role in building the hearty taste and perfect texture you want in a great Salisbury steak. Fresh aromatics and simple seasonings bring out the best in the turkey without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey: The lean protein base that keeps the steaks tender and healthy.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties and keeps them moist without being dense.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the meat mixture together nicely.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture for a softer, juicier bite.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Infuses the patties with subtle sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Lends a fragrant and savory lift to the mixture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a tangy umami kick that elevates the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the patties and adding richness.
- 1 medium onion, sliced: Caramelizes slowly in the slow cooker, lending sweetness and texture to the gravy.
- 1 1/2 cups sliced mushrooms: Earthy and tender, mushroom slices deepen the savory sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups beef or turkey broth: The flavorful base for the slow-cooked gravy.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the gravy to just the right consistency.
- 2 tablespoons water: Used to dissolve cornstarch for smooth gravy thickening.
How to Make Slow-Cooked Turkey Salisbury Steak Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Patties
Start by combining ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined to keep the patties tender. Then, shape the mixture into six oval patties. The mix of seasoning and binders ensures that each patty holds its shape while staying juicy through the slow-cooking process.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown each patty for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This browning step locks in flavor and creates a beautiful caramelized crust, adding texture before the slow cooker finishes the cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base
Layer sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of your slow cooker. This bed of veggies not only adds flavor but also keeps the patties elevated so they cook gently in a rich, aromatic environment.
Step 4: Assemble and Slow-Cook
Place the browned patties on top of the mushrooms and onions. Pour the broth over everything, cover, and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for about 3 hours. The slow heat allows all those delicious ingredients to mingle and break down into a luscious, savory sauce.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Once the patties are cooked through, remove them carefully and stir together cornstarch and water until smooth. Mix this slurry into the gravy in the slow cooker. Turn the heat to high and cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the gravy thickens beautifully, becoming glossy and full of flavor.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return the patties to the slow cooker and spoon the thickened gravy over them, coating each steak perfectly. Let everything sit for a few minutes to marry the flavors before serving piping hot.
How to Serve Slow-Cooked Turkey Salisbury Steak Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of green freshness and a mild herby note that brightens the rich gravy. You might also try a few crisp fried onions for contrast in texture that complements the tender patties perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the gravy like a dream. Alternatively, buttered egg noodles or fluffy steamed rice provide a neutral backdrop to highlight the savory steak and sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad create balance and freshness on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the turkey Salisbury steak sliced over toasted open-faced bread for a rustic gravy melt sandwich. Or plate the patties alongside a colorful medley of roasted root vegetables for a show-stopping dinner presentation that feels both homey and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The patties will stay moist and the gravy will keep its rich consistency for up to 3 days, making for easy lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This Slow-Cooked Turkey Salisbury Steak Recipe freezes beautifully. Separate the patties and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the gravy smooth and avoid drying out the patties. Microwaving on medium power also works well; cover to retain moisture and heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I make this Slow-Cooked Turkey Salisbury Steak Recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely. You can brown the patties and then simmer everything in a covered skillet or Dutch oven on low heat for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, turning occasionally. It won’t have the same slow-simmered depth but will still be delicious and tender.
What can I use instead of ground turkey?
If you’re not a fan of turkey or want a different flavor, ground chicken or lean ground beef can be swapped in. Keep in mind the cooking times and fat content will vary slightly, affecting texture and richness.
Is there a way to make the gravy gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free broth. Replace the cornstarch slurry with arrowroot powder as a thickener for a perfect gluten-free version.
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?
Definitely! You can mix and shape the patties a day before and keep them covered in the fridge. Wait to brown and slow cook them until you’re ready to serve fresh, or brown and freeze the patties uncooked for easy meal prep later.
What sides best complement this dish for picky eaters?
Mashed potatoes and buttered noodles are often crowd-pleasers that blend well with the savory flavors and soft textures of the turkey Salisbury steak. Mild steamed veggies like carrots or green beans also add color without overwhelming tastes.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a Slow-Cooked Turkey Salisbury Steak Recipe that brings warmth and hearty satisfaction to the table with minimal fuss. Its blend of tender turkey, rich gravy, and comforting sides creates a meal that feels like a little celebration of home cooking. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the cozy, delicious results—you might find it becoming a staple in your dinner rotation!
Print
Slow-Cooked Turkey Salisbury Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours on LOW or 3 hours on HIGH plus 15 minutes gravy thickening
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Slow-Cooked Turkey Salisbury Steak recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic comfort food with lean ground turkey. Tender turkey patties are browned and then slow-cooked on a bed of onions and mushrooms in savory broth, resulting in a flavorful and juicy dish. Finished with a thickened gravy, it’s perfect served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Patties
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Slow Cooker Base & Gravy
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 1/2 cups beef or turkey broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Make the Turkey Patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough patties.
- Shape Patties: Form the mixture into 6 evenly sized oval patties for consistent cooking.
- Brown Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown each patty for 2–3 minutes on each side until nicely seared but not cooked through, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Prepare Slow Cooker Base: Layer sliced onions and mushrooms in the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful bed for the patties.
- Add Patties to Slow Cooker: Place browned patties on top of the onions and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
- Add Broth and Cook: Pour the broth over the patties. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or on HIGH for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and patties to cook through tenderly.
- Prepare Gravy: Remove the patties carefully and set aside. Mix the cornstarch with water until smooth, then stir into the remaining liquid in the slow cooker.
- Thicken Gravy: Cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes in the slow cooker to thicken the gravy to a desirable consistency.
- Combine Patties and Gravy: Return the patties to the slow cooker and coat them thoroughly with the thickened gravy.
- Serve: Serve the turkey Salisbury steaks hot over your choice of mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice to complete the comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley to the patty mixture.
- If you prefer a richer gravy, use beef broth instead of turkey broth.
- Ensure not to overmix the turkey mixture to keep patties tender.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- This recipe is a great low-fat alternative to traditional Salisbury steak made with ground beef.
