Name: Salisbury Steak
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon oil or butter (for searing); 2 tablespoons butter (for gravy); 1/2 medium yellow onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for gravy); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

This Salisbury Steak is one of those comforting, stick-to-your-ribs dinners I crave when the temperature drops or when I’ve had a long day. There’s something deeply satisfying about tender beef patties smothered in a rich, savory gravy, especially when served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s hearty, familiar, and feels like a warm hug on a plate.

What I love most is how this classic dish bridges the gap between rustic home cooking and old-school diner charm. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but feels like you’ve made something extra special. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want to treat yourself, Salisbury Steak always delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Salisbury Steak

It’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
The onion gravy is savory and comforting, perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or rice.
You can prep the patties ahead of time for busy weeknights.
It’s family-friendly and budget-friendly.
Feels like comfort food but cooks quickly like a weeknight staple.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for Salisbury Steak. It has just the right amount of fat to keep the patties juicy and flavorful without becoming greasy. You could use leaner beef, but it may result in drier patties unless you compensate with additional moisture, like grated onion or a splash of broth.

Options for Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.
Breadcrumbs can be swapped with crushed saltine crackers or rolled oats if you’re out.
Beef broth is ideal for the gravy, but you can use chicken or even vegetable broth in a pinch.
Worcestershire sauce adds depth, but soy sauce can work as a substitute.
For a gluten-free option, use GF breadcrumbs and cornstarch in place of flour.

Ingredients for this Salisbury Steak

Each ingredient in this Salisbury Steak recipe plays a role in building rich flavor and satisfying texture:

Ground beef (80/20) – Juicy, flavorful, and forms the hearty base of the steak patties.
Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meat together while keeping it tender.
Egg – Acts as a binder to hold the patties intact.
Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and depth to both the patties and the gravy.
Yellow onion – Half finely chopped for the patties, half sliced for the gravy. Sweetens and deepens the flavor.
Garlic – Infuses the meat and gravy with aromatic richness.
Beef broth – Forms the flavorful foundation of the gravy.
Flour – Thickens the gravy to a rich, silky consistency.
Butter – Used for sautéing onions and creating a roux for the gravy.
Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the beefy flavors.
Parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of fresh, herbal contrast.

Step 1: Mix the Patties

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat or it may become tough.

Step 2: Form and Shape

Divide the mixture into 4–6 equal portions and shape them into oval or round patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.

Step 3: Sear the Patties

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil or butter. Sear the patties for about 3–4 minutes per side, until a rich brown crust forms. Transfer them to a plate—they don’t need to be fully cooked yet.

Step 4: Cook the Onions

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Toss in the sliced onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 6–8 minutes. Add a pinch of salt to help them release moisture.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir to coat evenly, cooking for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Simmer the Patties

Return the seared patties to the skillet, nestling them into the onion gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, flipping once, until the patties are fully cooked and tender.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, generously ladling the onion gravy on top.

How Long to Prepare the Salisbury Steak

The total time to make Salisbury Steak is quite manageable and makes it a great option for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.

Prep Time: It takes about 15–20 minutes to prep everything. That includes mixing the meat, shaping the patties, slicing onions, and measuring out your gravy ingredients.

Cook Time: Cooking takes another 25–30 minutes depending on the thickness of your patties and how long it takes to simmer the gravy to perfection. In total, you’re looking at 40–50 minutes from start to finish.

Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak

Don’t overmix your beef mixture—just enough to combine ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense patties.
Make a small dent in each patty with your thumb. This prevents them from puffing up too much in the center while cooking.
Let the gravy simmer long enough for the flavors to meld and the flour taste to cook out.
Always sear the patties first. This adds tons of flavor through browning.
For extra richness, you can add a splash of cream or a pat of butter to the finished gravy.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the sear: You’ll miss out on major flavor and texture if you don’t brown the patties first.
Using lean beef: Patties made from lean beef tend to dry out. Aim for 80/20 ground beef.
Adding cold broth to hot roux: This can cause clumps in your gravy. Warm the broth slightly before adding.
Undercooked onions: Don’t rush this step—well-cooked onions build the base of the gravy’s flavor.
Not simmering the patties in gravy: This is key to getting ultra-tender Salisbury Steak and allowing the flavors to combine.

What to Serve With Salisbury Steak?

1. Mashed Potatoes

The classic pairing! Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the onion gravy beautifully.

2. Buttered Egg Noodles

These make a great alternative to potatoes—especially if you want a little variety.

3. Steamed Green Beans

Add a touch of crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the dish.

4. Roasted Carrots

Sweet and earthy, they complement the savory notes of the steak and gravy.

5. Dinner Rolls or Crusty Bread

Perfect for mopping up every last bit of the delicious gravy.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store any leftover Salisbury Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The gravy may thicken slightly as it cools, but it will loosen when reheated.

Freezer: Salisbury Steak freezes well. Let it cool completely, then place patties and gravy in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the gravy. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 1 patty with gravy — does not include side dishes):

Calories: ~350–400
Protein: 20–25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: ~600mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Salisbury Steak ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the patties and refrigerate them a day ahead. You can also fully cook and store them in gravy to reheat later.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even a beef/pork blend works well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Salisbury Steak the same as a hamburger patty?

Not quite. Salisbury Steak includes binders (breadcrumbs and egg) and is typically served with gravy. Hamburger patties are usually just seasoned beef.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe scales well. Just be sure not to overcrowd the skillet when searing the patties—work in batches if needed.

What if my gravy is too thick or thin?

If too thick, add a bit more broth to loosen it. If too thin, let it simmer longer or add a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with water.

Conclusion

Salisbury Steak is a comforting, nostalgic dish that delivers on flavor, heartiness, and weeknight practicality. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for cozy food to enjoy solo, this dish never disappoints. The rich onion gravy, tender patties, and classic sides make it a satisfying meal every time.