Salisbury Steak with Gravy

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A Classic, Comforting Meal That’s Always a Hit

Making Salisbury steak for my family is so satisfying, especially on cozy weeknights. It was an instant favorite from the first time I made it—juicy, flavorful beef patties covered in rich onion gravy. Every bite is packed with home-cooked goodness, like a warm hug on a plate.

The combination of tender steak, caramelized onions, and thick, savory gravy makes it absolutely delicious. With simple ingredients and easy cooking, this dish delivers a big taste without requiring hours in the kitchen.

This dish is comforting, and hearty, and the result is just amazing! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect meal, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the delicious gravy.

I prefer to enjoy it hot, straight from the skillet, with a side of roasted vegetables and a fresh salad. Some days, I sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a burst of color. This Salisbury Steak is super easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What Makes Salisbury Steak Special?

Salisbury steak is special because it transforms simple, affordable ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. The combination of well-seasoned beef patties and homemade gravy creates a rich, comforting dish that feels both familiar and indulgent. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that doesn’t sacrifice taste, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when you crave something hearty and filling.

Perfect For:

  • Family Dinners: This dish is a favorite among kids and adults alike. The rich flavors and soft texture make it appealing to all ages.
  • Comfort Food Lovers: If you enjoy warm, savory meals that remind you of home-cooked goodness, this is the perfect recipe.
  • Meal Prepping: Salisbury steak stores well and reheats beautifully, making it great for meal planning.
  • Budget-Friendly Cooking: It uses simple, affordable ingredients while delivering a restaurant-quality taste.

Ingredients

For the Steaks:

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)

For the Gravy:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need:

How to make Salisbury Steak with Gravy

Step 1:

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Shape the mixture into 4 oval patties.

Step 2:

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the sliced onions until soft. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 4:

Slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture, cooking until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5:

Return the patties to the skillet, spooning gravy over them. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the steaks are fully cooked.

Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a comforting and hearty meal!

Notes

  • Choose the Right Ground Beef: Use 80-85% lean beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
  • Mix Gently: Overmixing the beef mixture can make the patties dense; mix just until combined.
  • Let the Patties Brown Well: Searing the steaks properly before adding the gravy enhances the flavor.
  • Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Cook the onions over medium-low heat for extra sweetness and depth.
  • Use Cornstarch for a Smooth Gravy: Mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the pan to prevent lumps.
  • Simmer the Patties in Gravy: This step makes them extra tender and absorbs all the flavors.
  • Garnish for Extra Flavor: Fresh parsley or thyme adds color and a hint of freshness to balance the rich gravy.

Optional Ingredients

  • Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the gravy for a deeper, umami flavor.
  • Red Wine: A splash of red wine in the gravy gives it a rich, elegant taste.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds a savory depth and enhances the beefy flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: A little extra garlic boosts the taste of the patties.
  • Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard adds a slight tang to the gravy.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor and gives the dish a classic taste.

How to Enjoy Salisbury Steak?

A perfectly cooked Salisbury steak is best enjoyed fresh, served hot with a generous amount of gravy spooned over the top. The tender beef, coated in a rich sauce, is pure comfort on a plate. Pair it with mashed potatoes for a meal that feels like home.

For a lighter twist, serve it with roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. The crispness of the veggies contrasts beautifully with the creamy gravy.

Enjoy it with warm, buttered egg noodles or rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce. The combination of soft, buttery carbs with the juicy meat and savory gravy is simply irresistible.

For a complete meal, add a side of fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing helps balance the richness of the steak, making every bite feel satisfying and fresh.

Variations and Substitutions To Try!

Turkey Salisbury Steak: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner, lighter version while keeping the classic flavors intact.

Gluten-Free Salisbury Steak: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch instead of flour to make it gluten-free.

Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Add shredded cheese to the beef mixture for extra richness and a creamy texture inside the patties.

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak: Cook the patties in a slow cooker with the gravy for 4-6 hours on low for an effortless meal.

Mushroom Lover’s Version: Double the amount of mushrooms in the gravy for an extra earthy, umami-packed dish.

Spicy Salisbury Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a slight kick of heat.

Low-Carb Salisbury Steak: Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.

Balsamic Glazed Salisbury Steak: Add balsamic vinegar to the gravy for a slightly tangy, sweet twist on the traditional recipe.

How to Store

To store leftovers, place the Salisbury steak and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

For freezing, store the cooked patties and gravy separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop for best results.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat for Salisbury steak?

Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef. Ground turkey is a great leaner option while still being flavorful.

How do I prevent my patties from falling apart?

Make sure to use the right amount of breadcrumbs and egg in the mixture. These act as binders to help hold the patties together while cooking.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers, oats, or even almond flour can work as a substitute for breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free or low-carb option.

Can I make Salisbury steak without onions?

Yes! You can skip the onions or replace them with mushrooms for a slightly different flavor while still keeping the gravy rich.

How do I make my gravy thicker?

Use a cornstarch slurry (mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water) and stir it into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired thickness.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef or turkey, reduce the butter in the gravy, and serve it with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a lighter meal.

Can I cook Salisbury steak in the oven instead of the stovetop?

Yes! Brown the patties in a pan first, then bake them in a covered dish with the gravy at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes.

Salisbury Steak
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Salisbury Steak

Recipe by NancyCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Total time

40

minutes

Salisbury Steak is a classic comfort food featuring juicy, seasoned beef patties smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy.

Ingredients

  • For the Steaks:

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)

  • For the Gravy:

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 1 small onion (thinly sliced)

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon ketchup

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Shape the mixture into 4 oval patties.
  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the sliced onions until soft. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  • Slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture, cooking until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Return the patties to the skillet, spooning gravy over them. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the steaks are fully cooked.
  • Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a comforting and hearty meal!
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