For picky eaters, you can leave the mushrooms out and just use onions, or even skip both and simply pour the steak sauce over the frozen patties with a splash of water or beef broth (about 1/4 cup) so there’s still plenty of sauce.
Plain burger variation for picky eaters
If your family likes things a little sweeter, stir 1–2 tablespoons of brown sugar or honey into the steak sauce before pouring it over the patties. For a smoky twist, add a few dashes of liquid smoke or a spoonful of barbecue sauce along with the steak sauce.
You can also use turkey or chicken burger patties; just be sure to cook until they reach 165°F (74°C). If you prefer a lower-sodium version, look for reduced-sodium steak sauce and use leaner patties, then season lightly at the table.
Always place the patties in the slow cooker while they are still frozen, and keep the slow cooker covered during cooking so the temperature stays safe. Use a food thermometer to confirm the burgers are fully cooked to at least 160°F in the center before serving.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, store them in a covered container for up to 3–4 days, and reheat thoroughly until steaming hot before eating.
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