For those seeking a comforting, family-approved meal that aligns with a ketogenic or gluten-free lifestyle, the Keto Salisbury Steak Crock Pot recipe emerges as a standout choice. This dish transforms the traditional Salisbury steak into a healthier, slow-cooked version, perfect for busy weeknights.
What is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak is a seasoned hamburger patty, often bound with breadcrumbs, and served with a rich mushroom gravy. Traditional recipes may include eggs and breadcrumbs, but this keto-friendly version uses alternative ingredients to maintain a low-carb profile without sacrificing flavor.
Why Choose a Crock Pot Salisbury Steak?
Using a slow cooker offers several advantages:
- Convenience: Simply combine the ingredients, set the cooker, and let it work its magic.
- Flavor Infusion: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a richer, more savory dish.
- Healthier Cooking: Reduces the need for added fats, as the steak cooks in its own juices and broth.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
This recipe emphasizes readily available ingredients, with options for flavor customization.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is recommended to minimize grease.
- Pork Rind Crumbs: These replace traditional breadcrumbs, providing a savory flavor and binding the patties while keeping the dish low-carb. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can also be used.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Ensure it's gluten-free.
- Garlic & Onion: Freshly minced garlic and finely chopped onion provide a robust flavor base. Leeks can be used as an alternative to onions. Garlic powder and onion powder can be used, but they will alter the texture and flavor.
- Tallow or Butter: Tallow enhances healthy fats.
- Beef Broth: Beef broth is the ideal choice for the gravy.
- Xanthan Gum: This is used to thicken the gravy; a little goes a long way. Arrowroot powder can also be used as a thickening agent.
- Egg: Acts as a binder for the patties. Almond flour can also be added.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Salisbury Steak Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, pork rind crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Knead the mixture until well blended.
- Form the mixture into evenly sized patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the patties evenly on both sides. Searing enhances the flavor without fully cooking the meat.
- Place the seared patties into the bottom of the crock pot.
Crafting the Mushroom Gravy
- Melt butter or tallow in a skillet.
- Add sliced onions and mushrooms and sauté until softened.
- Add minced garlic and sauté briefly.
- Pour in beef broth and simmer for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle xanthan gum into the skillet and whisk to thicken the gravy.
Slow Cooking the Salisbury Steak
- Pour the gravy mixture over the patties in the crock pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low for a longer time allows the flavors to meld.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Keto Salisbury Steak
- Make-Ahead Preparation: The Salisbury steak patties can be prepped a day in advance.
- Freezing: Double the beef patty recipe and freeze half of them (without browning) for future use.
- Meat Variations: Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef.
- Adding Vegetables: Sneak finely chopped vegetables into the gravy.
- Flavor Boosters: Add dry onion soup mix, garlic powder, or Montreal Steak Seasoning.
- Thickening the Gravy: If the gravy isn’t thick enough, add another dash of xanthan gum.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Keto Salisbury Steak pairs well with various side dishes, both keto-friendly and traditional:
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Keto Side Dishes
- Mashed cauliflower
- Sautéed cabbage
- Green beans
- Salad
Traditional Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes (for those not strictly following a keto diet)
- Rice
- Dinner rolls
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 345 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25.2g
- Protein: 27.6g
- Fat: 19.9g
Recipe Variations
- Dairy-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including Worcestershire sauce, are dairy-free.
- Egg-Free: Use gluten-free flour as a binder instead of eggs.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
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