There is something incredibly satisfying about a warm, hearty plate of this Salisbury Steak Recipe that takes you straight to comfort food heaven. The luscious beef patties smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy bring a nostalgic, homestyle charm that everyone will love. Whether you’re craving a cozy family dinner or a dish that will impress guests with old-fashioned goodness, this recipe nails the perfect balance of tender, flavorful meat and silky, deeply comforting sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in crafting the depth of flavor and texture that make this Salisbury Steak Recipe so memorable. From the juicy ground beef to the umami-packed Worcestershire sauce, every component enhances the dish’s classic appeal.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20): The right fat content keeps the patties juicy and tender, essential for that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure and soaks up juices, helping the patties hold together beautifully without getting dense.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything perfectly cohesive while cooking.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Brings a tangy sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Loaded with umami, it deepens the meaty flavor in both the patties and the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick and complexity to the beef mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses gentle warmth and aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savoriness without overpowering the patty.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Brings out all the natural flavors harmoniously.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a perfect searing medium to achieve a golden crust on the patties.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: For cooking the onions, offering richness and smoothness to the gravy base.
- 1 small onion (thinly sliced): Delivers sweetness and texture that complements the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups beef broth: The backbone of the gravy, lending depth and a luscious mouthfeel.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to a velvety consistency.
- 2 tablespoons cold water: Used to make a smooth slurry, ensuring lump-free gravy.
How to Make Salisbury Steak Recipe
Step 1: Forming the Patties
Start by mixing the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until just combined. Handle the mixture gently to avoid compacting it too much, which keeps the patties tender. Shape the mixture into 4 oval patties, the perfect size for one satisfying serving.
Step 2: Searing the Patties
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. This step is key to developing a flavorful, golden crust that locks in moisture. Cook until the patties are browned and cooked through, then transfer them to a plate and set aside. Resist the urge to crowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Making the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt butter and add thinly sliced onions. Cook the onions for 5 to 7 minutes until they are soft and perfectly golden, releasing that sweet aroma you want in your gravy. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. In a separate small bowl, whisk together flour and cold water until smooth, then gradually stir this slurry into the skillet. Let the gravy simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often until it thickens up to a silky texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
Return the seared patties to the skillet and spoon the luscious gravy and onions over them. Allow everything to simmer gently for another 5 minutes – this final step lets the patties soak up all those fantastic flavors and ensures they’re heated through perfectly. Now, your Salisbury Steak Recipe is ready to dazzle!
How to Serve Salisbury Steak Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of chopped fresh parsley adds a bright pop of color and a fresh note that wakes up the rich flavors. If you want to get adventurous, a few sautéed mushrooms sprinkled on top take the dish to the next level of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Classic comfort foods pair best with this Salisbury Steak Recipe. Creamy mashed potatoes are the obvious champ, soaking up every bit of that savory gravy. Tender egg noodles or fluffy steamed rice also make wonderful options to round out the meal and accommodate family favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on presentation, serve the Salisbury steak patties on toasted, buttery English muffins with gravy ladled generously on top for an open-faced sandwich experience. Alternatively, arrange multiple smaller patties on a platter with bowls of gravy and sides for a casual shareable dinner party vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Salisbury Steak Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making those leftovers just as delightful as freshly cooked.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, the patties can be frozen uncooked or after cooking with gravy. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain the gravy’s luscious texture and keep the patties moist during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for the Salisbury Steak Recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional Salisbury steak uses ground beef, you can use ground turkey or a beef-pork blend for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking times and fat content to maintain juiciness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives, such as gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for thickening the gravy. The results are just as delicious.
What can I add for more richness in the gravy?
Adding a splash of cream in the gravy right at the end creates an irresistibly smooth and luxurious sauce. Sautéed mushrooms also lend an earthy depth that enhances the savoriness.
How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
The patties should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety. They’ll also feel firm but springy to the touch and have a nice browned crust on the outside.
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can form the patties a few hours or even a day in advance and refrigerate them. This makes dinnertime quick and easy when you’re ready to cook and serve your Salisbury Steak Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Salisbury Steak Recipe stands out as a timeless classic that brings warmth to any table. It’s a heartfelt, satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones on any day you crave a comforting, homemade feast. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Salisbury Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic American comfort food, Salisbury Steak features savory ground beef patties cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful onion gravy. This easy stovetop recipe combines simple ingredients for a hearty meal that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Gravy
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined to avoid tough patties, then shape the mixture into 4 oval patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Make the Onion Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until they become soft and golden brown, releasing their sweetness.
- Add Liquids and Thicken: Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup to the skillet with the onions. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and cold water until smooth. Slowly add the flour mixture to the skillet while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Simmer the Gravy: Allow the gravy to simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a rich consistency. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked patties to the skillet, spoon gravy over them, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to reheat and meld the flavors together before serving.
Notes
- Serve Salisbury steak with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
- For an extra layer of richness, add a splash of cream to the gravy or sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions.
- To make gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
