Pour cream of mushroom soup over raw hamburger patties, alongside 3 simple ingredients, into slow cooker for a budget-friendly dinner that disappears faster than anything else

This slow cooker 5-ingredient poor man’s steak is exactly the kind of budget-friendly comfort food many of us in the Midwest grew up with. Instead of searing or breading, you simply form hamburger patties, nestle them into the slow cooker, and pour cream of mushroom soup over the top with just three other pantry staples. As it cooks low and slow, the patties turn tender and almost steak-like, soaking up a savory, mushroomy gravy. It’s the kind of set-it-and-forget-it dinner that works on busy weekdays and quietly disappears from the table faster than more elaborate meals.

Serve these tender patties with a generous spoonful of the mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed white rice to catch every bit of sauce. A simple green side—like steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette—helps balance the richness. Warm dinner rolls or buttered toast are also welcome for mopping up the extra gravy, turning this into a complete, stick-to-your-ribs meal.

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 (1-ounce) packet dry onion soup mix
1/2 cup water
1/4 teaspoon black pepper