If you’ve ever craved a comforting dinner that takes you straight back to nostalgic family nights, this Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe is about to become your new favorite. With juicy ground beef patties bathed in an irresistibly savory onion and mushroom gravy, every bite feels like a warm, home-cooked hug. This recipe is not only incredibly easy but also delivers classic American flavors using pantry staples you likely already have on hand. Get ready for an experience packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday suppers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses humble, familiar ingredients that unite to create deep umami flavors and seriously tender steak patties. Each component brings its own special touch—whether it’s adding richness, binding everything together, or building that luscious brown gravy you’ll want to savor with every last bite.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): The heart of the Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe, providing juicy, hearty flavor and protein.
- Breadcrumbs (1/3 cup): These soak up juices and keep the patties moist and tender.
- Large Egg (1): Acts as the perfect binder so your patties hold together beautifully.
- Ketchup (2 tablespoons, divided): Adds a balance of sweetness and tang to both the steak mixture and the gravy.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Delivers layers of savory, complex flavor that’s the secret signature for Salisbury steak.
- Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the meaty taste in the patties without overwhelming freshness.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): A mild, fragrant background flavor that complements the beef.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in all the ingredients.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and enhances overall savoriness.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For browning, it gives the patties a beautiful crust with extra flavor.
- Onion (1 medium, sliced): Sweet and aromatic, it melts into the gravy for a comforting sauce.
- Mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): Earthy umami—these soak up all the delicious gravy as they soften.
- Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the gravy to perfect, spoon-coating consistency.
- Beef Broth (2 cups): The flavorful base for a silky, savory gravy you’ll want to mop up with every bite.
- Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Just a touch sharpens the gravy, making the flavors pop.
How to Make Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Patties
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and tossing in the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 1 tablespoon of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined—don’t overwork it for maximum tenderness! Then, form the mixture into four even oval-shaped patties. This little bit of care will give your Salisbury steak that signature shape and ultra-juicy texture.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the patties and sear them for about 4–5 minutes per side until both sides have a lovely brown crust. You don’t need to cook them all the way through; the patties will finish cooking in the gravy later. Set them aside on a plate to rest while you move on to the next step.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms
In the same skillet (no need to clean it—those browned bits add tons of flavor!), add your sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and beautifully golden. You’re building a flavor-packed foundation for your gravy here, so let the onions caramelize slightly if you have the patience!
Step 4: Build the Gravy
Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and mushrooms. Stir it in for a minute, letting it absorb fat and cook off any raw taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure there are no lumps. Then, add the remaining 1 tablespoon ketchup and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine and bring everything to a gentle simmer—the gravy will begin to thicken and taste irresistibly rich.
Step 5: Simmer the Patties in Gravy
Carefully return the browned patties to the skillet, nestling them into the bubbling gravy. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently on low heat for 15–20 minutes. This time lets the flavors mingle and ensures the patties cook through, becoming juicy and steeped with gravy. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is glossy and thickened and the aroma is absolutely mouthwatering.
How to Serve Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a bit of chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. For extra flavor, a dollop of sour cream or a dusting of black pepper works beautifully as well. Garnishing isn’t just for show—it makes each serving feel extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
No Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe is complete without something to soak up the delicious gravy. Creamy mashed potatoes are the gold standard, but fluffy white rice or buttered egg noodles also pair perfectly. Don’t forget a side of steamed green beans or peas for a pop of color and a little veggie goodness on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Salisbury steak in individual oven-safe dishes for a cozy feel. Or, make mini patties for a skillet slider night. Layer leftovers onto a crusty roll with gravy for the best steak sandwich you’ll ever eat—the possibilities are truly endless, so don’t be afraid to make this dish your own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Salisbury steaks and gravy into an airtight container once cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better as they blend together, so leftovers are something you’ll look forward to!
Freezing
This Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Freeze the cooked patties and gravy together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For the best texture, let the dish cool completely before sealing and freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge for an easy dinner down the road.
Reheating
To reheat, place the patties and gravy in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in a loosely covered dish until heated through. Either way, you’ll have a comforting meal in just a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While traditional Salisbury steak uses ground beef, feel free to use a mix of beef and turkey for a lighter flavor or swap in ground chicken if you like. Just watch the cooking times, as leaner meats may cook a little faster.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
The key is in the binding—using the right amount of breadcrumbs and egg, then mixing just until combined. Avoid over-handling the mixture, and be sure to sear the patties so they hold together nicely during simmering.
Can I make the Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the gravy. Double-check your Worcestershire sauce and broth to ensure they’re gluten-free, and you’ll be all set.
What vegetables work best in the gravy?
Onions and mushrooms are classic, but you can add in diced carrots, celery, or even baby spinach for a nutrition boost. Just make sure the veggies are sautéed until tender before adding the liquid for best texture and flavor.
Can I double the Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Brown the patties in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough, then simmer all the patties together in the gravy. Just add a little more broth if the pan gets crowded.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you’ll bring this Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe into your regular dinner rotation. It’s packed with love, nostalgia, and that just-right balance of hearty and comforting. Give it a try—your family will be asking for seconds, and you’ll find a new go-to that always delivers on flavor and warmth!
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Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty Salisbury steak recipe that is easy to make and perfect for a satisfying family dinner. Juicy ground beef patties smothered in a savory mushroom and onion gravy, served with mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Gravy:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the Salisbury Steaks: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 oval patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked. Set aside.
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms. Add flour, then gradually whisk in beef broth, ketchup, and Dijon mustard.
- Simmer: Return patties to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and gravy thickens.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with mashed potatoes or rice.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey.
- This dish stores well and can be made ahead for easy reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
