This Classic Salisbury Steak is a hearty dish made with ground beef, shaped into juicy patties, and smothered in a rich and tasty gravy. It’s comfort food at its best!
I love serving this over a bed of mashed potatoes—it’s a cozy meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll be smiling in no time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80% lean ground beef for the right balance of flavor and moisture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be mindful that they may need a little more seasoning to boost flavor.
Bread Crumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs add texture. If you want a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even finely crushed oats. I’ve also used crushed crackers before—it gives a nice crunch!
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce brings a ton of flavor. If you’re out, soy sauce or even a splash of vinegar can be a good stand-in. Just adjust the salt in your dish, since both can be salty.
Dijon Mustard: This is optional, but it adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard works too—or you can just skip it!
How Do You Get Perfectly Browned Patties?
Getting a nice sear on your Salisbury steak patties is key for flavor. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the patties. Here’s how to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust:
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil, allowing it to shimmer (but not smoke).
- Carefully place the patties in the skillet, giving them enough space to not overcrowd the pan, which can cause steaming.
- Don’t flip them too soon! Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side—wait until they naturally release from the skillet before turning them.
For an even better finish, let the patties rest for a minute or two after cooking, which helps keep them juicy.
Classic Salisbury Steak with Easy Rich Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/3 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Easy Rich Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and shaping the patties, and then around 20 minutes cooking and simmering. It’s a quick and comforting meal that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until everything is well blended.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Form each portion into an oval patty about 1/2-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and gives that classic Salisbury steak shape!
3. Brown the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Make the Gravy Base:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once it’s melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This will cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux. Then, gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits left in the skillet for added flavor. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard if you’re using it.
6. Simmer the Gravy:
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens to your desired consistency, which will take about 5 minutes.
7. Combine the Patties with the Gravy:
Return the Salisbury steak patties to the skillet and spoon some of that delicious gravy over them. Cover the skillet and let them simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and ensures the patties are cooked all the way through.
8. Final Touch:
Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want it to be flavorful and delicious!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, generously topped with the rich gravy. They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a comforting meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Classic Salisbury Steak with Easy Rich Gravy
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that ground turkey or chicken tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a little more seasoning to enhance the flavor. A splash of oil can also help keep the patties moist.
How Do I Thicken the Gravy if It’s Too Thin?
If your gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk this into the simmering gravy and cook for a few minutes until it thickens up!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and gravy in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth to revive the gravy’s consistency if needed.
What Should I Serve with Salisbury Steak?
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. For a healthier option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad!
