Salisbury steak is a comfort food classic that has been loved for generations. It combines the heartiness of ground beef with rich, savory flavors, all brought together in a luscious gravy. Whether looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a nostalgic dish, this Salisbury steak recipe will hit the spot.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up the best Salisbury steak dish that will leave your family asking for more. Below, we’ll walk you through an old-fashioned Salisbury steak recipe that’s simple yet flavorful, including tips on making the perfect gravy.
If you also enjoy light, delicious seafood, try our Crispy Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe—perfectly flavorful and healthy!
What is Salisbury Steak?
Before diving into the Salisbury steak and gravy recipe, let’s clarify what it actually is. While some confuse it with a simple hamburger steak recipe, Salisbury steak differs due to its ingredients and preparation.
It’s not just ground beef formed into patties—though that’s a key part—but also includes binders like breadcrumbs and eggs and flavorful seasonings that elevate it above a basic hamburger steak recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Salisbury steak recipe’s easy version requires ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean is ideal)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (paid ad) (gluten-free for those who are sensitive)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (paid ad)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (paid ad) (optional)
- Salt and pepper (paid ad) to taste (requires a grinder (paid ad), but it’s the best pepper I’ve ever tasted!)
For the Gravy:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mushrooms (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Patties
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard, if using. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
Form the mixture into four equally-sized patties. These patties resemble what you might make for a hamburger steak recipe, but the added ingredients make this an old-fashioned Salisbury steak recipe.
2. Cook the Patties
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook on each side for 4-5 minutes until they’re browned and cooked. Transfer the patties to a plate and keep warm while you prepare the gravy.
3. Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms (if using), and sauté until the onions are soft and golden brown. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, and cook for about 1 minute.
Slowly add the beef broth, whisking to combine with the flour and butter mixture. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial in transforming the dish into the best Salisbury steak recipe with a rich, flavorful gravy.
4. Simmer the Steaks in Gravy
Return the Salisbury steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Let everything simmer for another 5-7 minutes so the steaks absorb some of the delicious gravy. If you’ve ever tried a recipe for Salisbury steak and gravy that tasted a little bland, this simmering process is key to infusing the meat with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Salisbury steak hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up all that mouthwatering gravy. Steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, make excellent sides and balance the dish’s richness.
For a flavorful and hearty Southern classic, don’t miss our Delectable Cajun Gumbo Recipe—packed with bold spices!
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overwork the meat: Be gentle when mixing the ground beef for the patties. Overworking the meat can make the patties tough, and part of what makes a Salisbury steak recipe so good is its tender texture.
- Use a mix of beef: If you want to elevate your Salisbury steak, try using a mix of ground beef and pork or veal for extra flavor and tenderness.
- Make it ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge for a few days, and the flavors often improve after a day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Bring Comfort to Your Table with the Perfect Salisbury Steak
There you have it—an easy Salisbury steak recipe perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to replicate a classic old-fashioned Salisbury steak recipe from childhood or simply searching for a new way to enjoy ground beef, this dish delivers on all fronts. With its tender patties and rich, savory gravy, it’s bound to become a regular feature on your dinner table. Enjoy!
For even more comfort, try this rich, delicious pasta dish; check out our Creamy Dream Chicken Alfredo Recipe—a heart-warming favorite!