If you’re searching for the ultimate in cozy, stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, you cannot go wrong with Salisbury Steak. This classic dish combines juicy, flavorful beef patties with a rich, savory mushroom gravy that practically begs for a pile of creamy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re serving it up for a nostalgic weeknight dinner or sharing with a crowd, Salisbury Steak delivers that old-school satisfaction and heartwarming taste in every single bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the beauty: Salisbury Steak calls for pantry staples and everyday ingredients, but each one plays a starring role in delivering deep flavor, satisfying texture, and beautiful color to the finished dish. Be sure to use fresh ingredients for the very best results!

Ground Beef (1 1/2 pounds): For utterly tender patties, use beef with a bit of fat (around 80% lean).
Breadcrumbs (1/3 cup): These bind the patties and keep them moist. Use gluten-free if needed.
Milk (1/4 cup): A splash ensures extra-tender texture and helps meld the flavors.
Large Egg (1): The ultimate binder and a must for shaping your patties.
Small Onion, finely chopped (1): Sweetens the mix and adds a little crunch.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Essential for depth; don’t skip it!
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp, plus 1 tsp for gravy): Richly savory and completely classic.
Dijon Mustard (1 tsp): For that hint of tang that really wakes up the beef.
Salt (1 tsp) & Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): The basics, but undeniable flavor boosters.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For searing those patties until golden brown.
Butter (2 tbsp): Starts the gravy off rich and decadent.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp): Thickens the gravy just right. Use GF for gluten-free option.
Beef Broth (2 cups): The backbone of your sauce. Go for low-sodium if possible.
Tomato Paste (1 tbsp): Adds color and a touch of sweetness.
Onion Powder (1/2 tsp): Layers even more savory complexity.
Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): Because more garlic is always welcome!
Dried Thyme (1/2 tsp): For an earthy, classic note.
Sliced Mushrooms (1 cup): The secret to a truly luscious gravy.

How to Make Salisbury Steak

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Salisbury Steak Patties

This first step is where all the flavor gets layered in. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Give it a gentle mix (your hands work best here) just until everything is incorporated, which guarantees the patties stay tender. Split the mixture into six equal pieces, and shape each into a classic oval. This is truly where Salisbury Steak starts to look like dinner—isn’t it satisfying?

Step 2: Sear the Patties

Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high—don’t let it get smoky, but make sure it’s shimmering. Add your patties and let them sizzle for three to four minutes per side, until they’re beautifully browned. This caramelization adds mega flavor and helps the patties hold their shape once the gravy comes into play. Set the seared Salisbury Steak patties aside while you move on to the next delicious phase.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Gravy

Time for the secret sauce—literally. In that same skillet, drop in the butter and swirl until melted. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly as it cooks for about a minute, building a golden roux. Slowly whisk in the beef broth (pour it in a bit at a time) and keep whisking vigorously—you’re after a velvety gravy! Add the tomato paste, that extra splash of Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, and mushrooms. Let it bubble gently for five minutes, and enjoy how your kitchen starts to smell irresistible.

Step 4: Simmer It All Together

Return the browned patties to the skillet, nestling them right into the rich mushroom gravy. Spoon some sauce over the top of each one, then cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens: the patties finish cooking gently while soaking up all those deep, savory flavors. They’ll emerge juicy, tender, and coated in luscious gravy—truly Salisbury Steak perfection.

How to Serve Salisbury Steak

Garnishes

To add a final spark of color and freshness, shower your Salisbury Steak with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or snipped chives just before serving. A crack of black pepper or even a shimmer of flaky sea salt can also take the presentation up a notch—without overpowering that glorious gravy.

Side Dishes

Salisbury Steak just begs for a hearty pairing. Classic mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser, soaking up the rich mushroom gravy perfectly. Buttery egg noodles, rice, or even creamy polenta are all delicious partners. Don’t forget a green veg on the side, like green beans or roasted broccoli, for color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider building individual plates with a scoop of mashed potatoes, then topping with Salisbury Steak and a generous ladle of that dreamy gravy. For a fun twist, try serving the patties (sliced) over crusty toasted bread, giving every bite a built-in sponge for the sauce. Or, try making bite-sized patties for party sliders—they’re just as irresistible, any way you serve them.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Salisbury Steak keeps beautifully in the fridge, making it the kind of meal that’s just as delicious the next day. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to three days. The flavors only get deeper and more satisfying as they mingle with the gravy.

Freezing

For ultimate convenience, Salisbury Steak freezes well (with or without the gravy). Wrap individual cooked patties tightly or place them in freezer-safe containers, ideally with some of the sauce ladled on top to keep things moist. Freeze for up to three months, and label with the date for easy meal planning.

Reheating

When it’s time to reheat, gently warm the patties and gravy in a covered skillet over low heat, with a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy. The microwave works too, but heating slowly allows everything to refresh without drying out. Stir gently and heat until steaming hot all the way through.

FAQs

What’s the difference between Salisbury Steak and hamburger steak?

Great question! While both use seasoned ground beef patties, Salisbury Steak typically includes eggs, breadcrumbs, and extra flavorings mixed in, then simmers in a luscious gravy. Hamburger steak is usually simpler and not served with a sauce as rich or elaborate.

Can I make Salisbury Steak gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap traditional breadcrumbs and flour for your favorite gluten-free versions. The texture stays tender and the gravy thickens up just as nicely, so no one misses a thing.

What type Main Course

Cremini or white button mushrooms are classic and soak up all the gravy’s flavor. You can also experiment with sliced shiitake or portobello for a more intense mushroom taste and richer color.

Do I have to use beef—can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Totally! While Salisbury Steak is most traditional with beef, you can absolutely use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep an eye on the texture and don’t overmix, as leaner meats can become tough more easily.

Can I prepare Salisbury Steak in advance?

Yes! Make the patties and shape them a day ahead, or even cook them fully and store with the gravy. This makes dinnertime incredibly easy—just reheat gently and serve. It’s an ideal dish for meal prep or feeding a busy family.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Salisbury Steak has stood the test of time: it’s soul-warming, simple, and brings people together around the dinner table. With a few basic ingredients and a little love, you’ll have a meal guaranteed to brighten any night of the week. Give it a try soon—your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

Salisbury Steak Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A classic comfort food recipe for Salisbury Steak, featuring juicy ground beef patties smothered in a savory mushroom gravy. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the patties:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the gravy:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (extra for gravy)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup sliced mushrooms

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Instructions

Prepare the patties: In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shape into 6 oval patties.
Sear the patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter, stir in flour, then whisk in beef broth. Add tomato paste, extra Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and mushrooms. Simmer until thickened.
Finish cooking: Return patties to the skillet, spoon gravy over them, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until cooked through.
Serve: Serve hot with mashed potatoes or noodles.