Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Steak (5-Ingredient Comfort Classic)
Before we even talk about ingredients, can I just say thank you for being here. Truly. There is something so special about sharing the kind of recipes many of us grew up with — the practical, stretch-the-budget, feed-everyone-happily meals that made a house feel like home.
This Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Steak is exactly that kind of recipe. It’s humble. It’s hearty. It’s deeply comforting. And the best part? It only takes five simple ingredients and a slow cooker to turn everyday ground beef into something that tastes like it simmered all afternoon.
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Overview of This Budget-Friendly Classic
Poor Man’s Steak is a Midwestern-inspired comfort dish made from seasoned ground beef patties that slowly braise in a rich mushroom-onion gravy. Instead of pan-frying or baking, everything cooks low and slow in the crockpot, resulting in ultra-tender patties that soak up all that savory goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Only 5 pantry-friendly ingredients
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No browning required
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Budget-conscious
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Minimal prep
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Family-approved
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Perfect for busy weekdays
What Does Poor Man’s Steak Taste Like?
Imagine fork-tender hamburger patties infused with savory onion flavor, wrapped in a creamy mushroom gravy that coats every bite. The slow cooking transforms simple ground beef into something surprisingly “steak-like” in texture.
It’s rich. It’s satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that makes you go back for seconds without even thinking about it.
Benefits of This Recipe
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High in protein
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Slow cooker convenience
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Uses affordable ingredients
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Great for leftovers
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Pairs beautifully with simple side dishes
Ingredients
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1½ pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
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1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
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1 (1-ounce) packet dry onion soup mix
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½ cup water
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
Necessary Tools
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4- to 6-quart slow cooker
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Medium mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Measuring cups
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Spatula or spoon
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
Want to customize it? Here are some easy swaps:
Add-Ins
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Sliced mushrooms for extra texture
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A splash of Worcestershire sauce
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Minced garlic
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A pinch of smoked paprika
Substitutions
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Ground turkey instead of beef
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Cream of chicken instead of mushroom
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Low-sodium onion soup mix
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Beef broth in place of water for deeper flavor

