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Dinner · Part 2 of 3: Instructions

Slow Cooker Creamy Onion Turkey Burger Steaks Step-by-step instructions

Four golden-tan turkey burger steaks covered in a rich creamy onion gravy inside a black slow cooker insert.
Prep
Cook
Total
Serves
4
Includes 5 min resting

Before you start

Before beginning, ensure that your slow cooker insert is clean and dry. If using frozen turkey patties, thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight. Prepare the onion by peeling and slicing it into uniform rings.

Gather your chive seasoning and the can of cream of chicken soup so everything is within reach. Having these items prepped and ready will make the assembly process efficient and straightforward, allowing you to get the meal started in just a few minutes before moving on with your day.

Ingredients at a glance (4)
  • 4 turkey burger patties
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced into rings
  • 1 tbsp chive seasoning
  • 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup

Instructions

Assembling the ingredients

  1. Layering the ingredients
    Place the raw turkey patties in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Top the patties with the sliced onion rings and sprinkle the chive seasoning evenly over the top.
    Look for ensure the patties are flat and onions are distributed
    Tip arrange the patties in a single layer to ensure even cooking throughout the process

At the end of this phase, your slow cooker should be neatly layered with the turkey patties at the bottom, topped by the onion rings and the chive seasoning. Everything should be arranged in a single, even layer to ensure consistent heat distribution.

Check that the patties are lying flat against the bottom of the insert. This preparation is critical to ensure that every part of the meal cooks at the same rate and that the flavors are properly balanced before the slow heating begins.

Slow cooking the turkey

  1. Adding the sauce
    Spoon the cream of chicken soup directly over the seasoned turkey and onions. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 hours until the turkey is fully cooked through.
    Look for the soup should melt into a gravy consistency
    Safe temperature 165°F (74°C) internal temperature (poultry)
    Tip do not add extra water as the onions and turkey will release enough moisture

Once the soup is added and the slow cooker is covered, the cooking process begins. During this time, the turkey will release its juices and combine with the soup and onions to form a savory, creamy gravy. The aroma in the kitchen should be savory and comforting. Check that the slow cooker is set to the correct heat setting—low—to ensure the turkey cooks gently and remains tender. The liquid should be bubbling gently, indicating that the braising process is working as intended.

Final check and serving

  1. Serving
    Check that the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is cooked through. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute for a better texture.
    Look for the meat should be opaque and firm
    Safe temperature 165°F (74°C) internal temperature (poultry)
    Tip use a meat thermometer to verify the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)

By the end of the cooking time, the turkey should be fully cooked, and the gravy should have a thick, velvety consistency. The onions should be soft and translucent. Before serving, verify the internal temperature of the patties with a thermometer to ensure they have reached 165°F (74°C).

Once the temperature is verified, allow the dish to rest for five minutes. The final result should be a cohesive, hot, and delicious meal with tender turkey steaks and a flavorful, creamy sauce.

Common mistakes

A common mistake is overcrowding the slow cooker or layering the patties in a way that prevents even heat circulation. Ensure the patties are in a single, flat layer. Another error is using frozen meat, which can lead to uneven cooking and potential food safety risks.

Avoid opening the lid during the cooking process, as this releases heat and moisture, which can significantly increase the cooking time and dry out the meat. Finally, do not use excessive amounts of liquid; the soup and onions provide sufficient moisture.

How to tell it’s done

To determine if the turkey is done, use a digital meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the patty. The internal temperature must reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safety. Visually, the patties should be completely opaque throughout with no signs of pink. The texture will be tender and moist, and the gravy should be thick and creamy, coating the onions and turkey evenly. If the patties are not quite at temperature, continue cooking for another 15 minutes and re-check.

  • Poultry: 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part
  • Ground meat: 160°F (71°C) in the thickest part

Coming up in Part 3: common questions

  • Can this recipe be made with frozen turkey patties?
  • Why does the gravy look thin when the cooking is finished?
  • Is it necessary to sear the turkey patties before slow cooking?

Also in Part 3: variations (Mushroom Onion Turkey, Spicy Turkey Steaks), storage and make-ahead, and the printable recipe card.

Up next · Part 3 of 3

2 variations · storage & make-ahead · 3 answers · printable card

Tips, FAQ & printable recipe (Part 3)← Back to the ingredients (Part 1)