Best Salisbury Steak

Salisbury Steak is a classic, comforting dish that features juicy beef patties smothered in a rich, flavorful brown gravy. Often served with mashed potatoes or over rice, this hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender ground beef, savory seasonings, and a velvety gravy makes this recipe the best version of Salisbury steak, sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Salisbury Steak is all about the balance of flavors—juicy, seasoned beef patties with a rich, savory gravy. This dish is not only comforting and satisfying, but it’s also easy to prepare. The tender steaks are pan-fried and then simmered in a flavorful gravy made with onions, mushrooms, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal. Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, this Salisbury steak will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients

For the Salisbury Steaks:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for a crispier texture)

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1/4 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1/2 small onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, for added flavor and texture)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Salisbury Steaks:

1. Make the Patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix gently until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into an oval patty.

2. Brown the Patties: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re browned and seared. Once browned, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.

Make the Gravy:

3. Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden. If you’re using mushrooms, add them now and sauté for another 3 minutes until softened.

4. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and mushrooms, stirring to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flour to thicken slightly. Gradually pour in the beef broth and water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer: Return the browned Salisbury steaks to the skillet and spoon some of the gravy over the patties. Lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let the steaks simmer in the gravy for 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the gravy has thickened.

Serve:

6. Serve the Steaks: Once the Salisbury steaks are cooked through, serve them hot with the gravy poured over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete, comforting meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20-25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Garlic: For an extra savory punch, sauté some minced garlic with the onions and mushrooms.

• Cheesy Salisbury Steaks: Add a slice of melted cheese (like cheddar or Swiss) on top of the patties just before serving for a cheesy twist.

• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or veggie patties for a vegetarian Salisbury steak, and substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth.

• Extra Veggies: Add carrots, peas, or green beans to the gravy for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Salisbury steaks and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the gravy smooth. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, but keep in mind that ground turkey may be drier, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like extra milk or broth.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the patties and gravy ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and then heat everything together when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Salisbury steak?

Salisbury steak pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, or roasted vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans.

Can I make this without Worcestershire sauce?

Yes, if you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a slightly different flavor.

Can I freeze Salisbury steak?

Yes, Salisbury steak can be frozen. Store the patties and gravy in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave.

Conclusion

The Best Salisbury Steak is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy, seasoned beef patties and a rich, savory gravy, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a classic comfort food dish, this Salisbury steak recipe offers the perfect balance of flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction. Try it today, and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade comfort food!