Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg yolk, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that could make the patties tough.
Step 2: Form the Patties
- Shape the mixture into oval-shaped patties, approximately ½ inch thick. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking. Place the patties on a plate and set them aside while you prepare the gravy.
Step 3: Create the Gravy Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown gravy mix, beef broth, ketchup, whole grain Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cool water. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture. This will be the foundation of your sauce that brings everything together.
Step 4: Layer in the Slow Cooker
- Spray the bottom of your slow cooker with a little cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the sliced mushrooms at the bottom, creating a nice bed for the patties.
- Next, gently place the beef patties on top of the mushrooms. Finally, pour the gravy mixture over everything, ensuring all patties are covered.
Step 5: Slow Cook
- Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer, low-temperature cooking allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
Step 6: Final Touches
- When the cooking time is up, check the patties for doneness. They should be tender and juicy. If you want a thicker gravy, remove the patties and whisk some additional cornstarch in water, then stir it into the gravy and let it cook on high for another 20-30 minutes.
Notes
- Use Lean Meat: Ground sirloin is a great option for this recipe, as it balances flavor and health.
- Don’t Skip the Mushrooms: They add a wonderful umami flavor that enhances the dish.
- Mix it Gently: Overmixing the beef can result in tough patties, so handle the mixture with care.
- Leftovers are Gold: This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld.
- Serve with Style: Set up a toppings bar with fresh herbs or crispy fried onions for added flavor and texture.
