This Salisbury steak recipe is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Featuring juicy ground beef patties enveloped in a rich mushroom and onion gravy, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy the homemade taste that rivals any restaurant version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavors: The savory combination of beef, mushrooms, and onions creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes, this Salisbury steak is an easy meal for busy nights.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe appeals to all ages, making it a great choice for family dinners.
- Made from Scratch: Enjoy the satisfaction of preparing this classic dish with fresh ingredients.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Salisbury steak.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for frying the patties and creating the gravy in one pan—less mess to clean up!
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the beef patty ingredients evenly before cooking.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by thoroughly mixing in the flour with broth.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Pepper (to taste)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
– 1 medium onion (sliced or chopped)
– 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 1 3/4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How to Make Salisbury Steak
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. This ensures everything is ready when you begin cooking.
Step 2: Make the Beef Patties
Add all the beef patty ingredients (except for the olive oil) into a large mixing bowl.
1. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into four oval-shaped patties, aiming for even thickness of about ½ to ¾ inch.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a few minutes.
2. Fry each beef patty for about 5–6 minutes on each side until nicely browned.
3. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside while leaving the fat in the skillet.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms
In the same skillet:
1. Add sliced onions and mushrooms.
2. Sauté them while stirring occasionally until they are seared and most of their moisture has evaporated (about 7–9 minutes).
3. Transfer to the same plate as the patties.
Step 5: Prepare the Gravy
Lower the heat to medium in your skillet:
1. Add butter; once melted, sprinkle in flour.
2. Stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes until raw flour taste is gone.
3. Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth without lumps.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Stir in Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder into your sauce:
1. Return onions, mushrooms, and beef patties along with any juices back into the skillet.
2. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until patties are fully cooked through and gravy thickens slightly.
3. If gravy gets too thick, add a splash of water or more beef broth as needed.
Serve your delicious Salisbury steak immediately with additional salt and pepper if desired! Enjoy this homemade classic that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
How to Serve Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a hearty dish that brings comfort and satisfaction. It can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.
Classic Pairings
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes complement the rich gravy beautifully.
- Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite delightful.
- Steamed Vegetables: A medley of steamed broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Creative Twists
- On a Bed of Greens: Serve the Salisbury steak over a fresh garden salad for a lighter option.
- With a Side of Garlic Bread: The crunch of garlic bread balances the softness of the steak and gravy.
- In a Sandwich: Place leftovers in a bun with some extra sauce for a delicious sandwich.
Garnishing Ideas
- Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling chopped parsley on top adds freshness and color.
- Sliced Green Onions: Finely sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

How to Perfect Salisbury Steak
To make the perfect Salisbury steak, attention to detail is key. Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use Lean Beef: Selecting lean ground beef will keep the patties tender without being greasy.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough patties. Combine ingredients until just mixed.
- Brown Well: Achieve a good sear on the patties for extra flavor. Browning enhances taste through caramelization.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices according to your preference for optimal flavor.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the cooked patties to rest for a few minutes helps retain their juices when cutting.
Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak
Pairing Salisbury steak with great side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring out nutty flavors that pair wonderfully with the savory steak.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and refreshing contrast to the warm, rich steak dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful burst of flavor that complements the savory gravy nicely.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the salty flavors of Salisbury steak.
- Cauliflower Mash: A lower-carb alternative, cauliflower mash gives you creamy texture without heavy carbs.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall meal experience.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes introduce an interesting texture alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salisbury steak, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using low-fat ground beef: Lean ground beef is essential for flavor and texture. Opt for at least 80% lean beef for the best results.
- Not seasoning the patties: Failing to season the patties can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to elevate the taste.
- Overcooking the patties: Cooking them too long can make your Salisbury steak dry. Aim for a nice sear while keeping them juicy inside.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the cooked patties to rest ensures they retain moisture. Let them sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Neglecting gravy thickness: If your gravy is too thin, it won’t cling well to the meat. Adjust the thickness by cooking it longer or adding more flour.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Salisbury steak in an airtight container in the fridge.
- It will last up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Salisbury Steak
- Place cooled Salisbury steak in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Salisbury Steak
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Salisbury steak:
What is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak is a dish made from seasoned ground beef formed into patties and served with rich mushroom and onion gravy.
Can I use other meats for Salisbury Steak?
Yes! While beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey or chicken as alternatives for a lighter version.
How do I make Salisbury Steak gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free.
What should I serve with Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I prepare Salisbury Steak ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
This delicious Salisbury steak recipe offers comfort food at its finest. Its savory flavors and customizable nature make it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own!
Salisbury Steak
Savor the warmth of homemade Salisbury steak, a classic comfort food that combines juicy ground beef patties with a rich mushroom and onion gravy. This dish is a nostalgic favorite, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a wholesome meal that rivals any restaurant version. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is not only delicious but also versatile—pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a satisfying dinner that pleases everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
- 1 medium onion (sliced or chopped)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 3/4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Start by prepping all your ingredients. This ensures everything is ready when you begin cooking.
- Add all the beef patty ingredients (except for the olive oil) into a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Form the mixture into four oval-shaped patties, aiming for even thickness of about ½ to ¾ inch.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat: Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a few minutes. Fry each beef patty for about 5–6 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside while leaving the fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet: Add sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté them while stirring occasionally until they are seared and most of their moisture has evaporated (about 7–9 minutes). Transfer to the same plate as the patties.
- Lower the heat to medium in your skillet: Add butter; once melted, sprinkle in flour. Stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes until raw flour taste is gone. Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth without lumps.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder into your sauce: Return onions, mushrooms, and beef patties along with any juices back into the skillet. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until patties are fully cooked through and gravy thickens slightly. If gravy gets too thick, add a splash of water or more beef broth as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty with gravy (180g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg

