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–+ servings

Slow Cooker Smothered Pepper & Onion Burger Steaks Recipe

Tender hamburger steaks are slowly cooked with sweet onions, colorful bell peppers, and a rich homemade brown gravy for an easy family dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 40 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Course Dinner, slow cooker
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

Burger Steaks

  • 2 pounds ground beef 85% lean
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pepper and Onion Gravy

  • 1 large yellow onion sliced
  • 1 large green bell pepper sliced
  • 1 large red bell pepper sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape into oval patties approximately ¾ inch thick.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the patties for approximately two minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  • Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for three to four minutes, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Place half of the vegetable mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker. Arrange the browned patties on top and cover with the remaining vegetables.
  • Whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, thyme, and smoked paprika. Use a little of this mixture to scrape the browned bits from the skillet, then pour all the liquid into the slow cooker.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for three to four hours or HIGH for 1½ to 2½ hours, until the patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
  • Remove the cooked patties. Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the gravy. Cover and cook on HIGH for 15 to 25 minutes, until thickened. If needed, thicken the gravy in a saucepan instead.
  • Return the patties to the gravy. Spoon the peppers and onions over the top, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use 85% lean ground beef for tender, flavorful patties.
  • Brown the meat before slow cooking for better texture and flavor.
  • Avoid lifting the crockpot lid unnecessarily during cooking.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the burger steaks reach 160°F.
  • For thicker gravy, add a little more cornstarch mixed with cold water.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
  • Freeze cooked patties with gravy for up to three months for the best quality.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.