Tender, juicy beef patties slow-cooked in a rich, savory steak sauce. This easy crockpot recipe uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful, comforting family dinner with minimal preparation.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 4–5 hours (LOW) | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes–5 hours 10 minutes | Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties
2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt, or to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)
For the Steak Sauce
1 cup steak sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
1 tbsp butter
For Thickening (Optional)
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp cold water
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely minced onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Mix gently using clean hands or a fork until all the ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the beef patties tough.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the beef mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a thick, round patty, approximately 3/4 inch thick.
Press a small indentation into the center of each patty to help them maintain their shape during cooking.
Place the patties on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes if the mixture feels too soft.
Step 3: Sear the Patties (Optional)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the patties in the skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
Searing adds extra flavor and helps the patties hold together, but you can skip this step if you prefer a quicker preparation.
Step 4: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Arrange the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the butter, tomato paste, dried thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Pour in the beef broth, steak sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Add the brown sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Arrange the Beef Patties
Carefully place the beef patties over the onion mixture in the slow cooker.
Arrange them in a single layer if possible. If necessary, overlap the patties slightly.
Spoon some of the steak sauce mixture over each patty, making sure they are generously coated.
Step 6: Slow-Cook the Beef Patties
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook:
LOW: 4–5 hours
HIGH: 2–3 hours
Cook until the beef patties are tender and fully cooked. Check the internal temperature in the center of a patty using a food thermometer. Ground beef should reach 160°F (71°C).
Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this can release heat and increase cooking time.
Step 7: Thicken the Steak Sauce
Once the patties are fully cooked, carefully transfer them to a serving plate and keep warm.
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water. Stir until smooth and free of lumps.
Pour the mixture into the hot sauce in the slow cooker and stir gently.
Cover and cook on HIGH for another 10–15 minutes, until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency.
If the sauce is already thick enough, you can skip this step.
Step 8: Coat the Patties
Return the beef patties to the slow cooker and spoon the thickened steak sauce generously over them.
Allow them to warm in the sauce for another 5 minutes so they absorb the savory flavors.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish.
Step 9: Serve
Transfer the beef patties to a serving platter and spoon extra steak sauce over them.
Serve hot with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, roasted vegetables, buttered noodles, or fresh bread.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings. Actual values depend on the beef, steak sauce, and other ingredients used.
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
440 kcal
Protein
32 g
Total Fat
27 g
Saturated Fat
10 g
Carbohydrates
16 g
Fiber
1 g
Sugar
7 g
Cholesterol
125 mg
Sodium
950 mg
Nut Information (Q/S)
Q/S = Quantity / Serving
Nut Type
Quantity
Almonds
0 g
Walnuts
0 g
Cashews
0 g
Pistachios
0 g
Pecans
0 g
Peanuts
0 g
Hazelnuts
0 g
Pine nuts
0 g
Other tree nuts
0 g
Allergen information:
Tree nuts: None intentionally added.
Peanuts: None intentionally added.
Wheat/gluten: May be present in breadcrumbs, steak sauce, and soy sauce.
Soy: May be present in soy sauce and steak sauce.
Egg: Present in the beef patties.
Check all packaged ingredients for allergen statements and possible nut cross-contact, especially if preparing this meal for someone with a nut allergy.
Cooking Tips
Choose 80/20 ground beef: The fat helps keep the patties juicy and tender throughout slow cooking.
Do not overmix: Mix the beef mixture gently to avoid dense patties.
Sear for extra flavor: Browning the patties before slow cooking creates a richer, more savory taste.
Use your favorite steak sauce: Choose a steak sauce you enjoy, as it provides much of the recipe’s flavor.
Adjust the sweetness: Add brown sugar only if your steak sauce is particularly tangy or you prefer a sweeter gravy.
Avoid excessive liquid: The patties release some moisture while cooking, so you do not need to completely submerge them.
Thicken at the end: Cornstarch helps create a glossy, rich sauce that coats the beef patties beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy mashed potatoes: A classic side that absorbs the rich steak sauce.
Steamed white rice: Perfect for soaking up every bit of the savory gravy.
Buttered egg noodles: A comforting pairing for the tender beef patties.
Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, and green beans add color and freshness.
Garlic bread: Ideal for enjoying the extra steak sauce.
Roasted potatoes: A hearty option for a satisfying family dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover beef patties and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled patties with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed. Heat leftovers to 165°F (74°C).
Meal prep: You can prepare and shape the patties a day ahead and refrigerate them in a covered container until ready to cook.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I put raw beef patties directly into the slow cooker?
Yes. You can place the raw patties directly into the slow cooker with the steak sauce mixture. Searing is optional, although it adds extra flavor and helps the patties hold their shape.
2. Can I use frozen beef patties?
It is best to thaw frozen patties safely in the refrigerator before slow cooking. This helps ensure they cook evenly and reach a safe internal temperature.
3. How do I keep beef patties from falling apart?
Use breadcrumbs and egg as binders, avoid overmixing, and handle the patties gently. Searing them before slow cooking can also help them maintain their shape.
4. Can I make this recipe without steak sauce?
Yes. You can make a substitute using beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, a little vinegar, and brown sugar. Adjust the quantities to achieve your preferred balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
5. How can I make the sauce thicker and richer?
Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. For extra richness, stir in a small amount of butter after thickening and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Steak Sauce Beef Patties are an easy, hearty, and delicious meal that combines tender homemade beef patties with a rich, savory sauce. Slow cooking allows the patties to absorb the flavors of steak sauce, garlic, onions, and herbs, creating a comforting dish with minimal effort. Serve them with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a satisfying homemade family dinner.