Salisbury Steak and Gravy

Salisbury Steak and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food—juicy, flavorful beef patties smothered in a rich, savory brown gravy. This classic dish, often served with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles, has been a staple of American home cooking for generations. It’s an affordable, easy-to-make meal that brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying, hearty dinner.

Salisbury steak is often mistaken for a hamburger steak, but it has a distinct identity. The key difference lies in the seasoning and texture. Salisbury steak is made with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings that give it a more tender, meatloaf-like consistency, while a hamburger steak is simply ground beef shaped into a patty. The real magic of this dish, however, is in the rich brown gravy, which combines beef broth, onions, and Worcestershire sauce to create a deep, umami-packed sauce that takes the steak to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and comforting – The combination of juicy beef patties and a velvety gravy makes for a deeply satisfying meal.
• Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable pantry staples that come together in a delicious way.
• Easy to prepare – With step-by-step instructions, even beginner cooks can master this dish.
• Perfect for meal prep – Stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the flavors, seasonings, or even make a healthier version by swapping ingredients.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving size: 1 Salisbury steak with gravy

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Salisbury Steak Patties:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for best flavor)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Gravy:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for deeper flavor)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Cracked black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salisbury Steak Patties

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and milk.
2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—avoid overmixing, as it can make the patties tough.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into an oval patty, about ½ inch thick.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
5. Once the oil is hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they develop a nice brown crust.
6. Transfer the patties to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the gravy.
5. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
6. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine.
7. Simmer the gravy for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked Salisbury steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
2. Spoon some of the gravy over the patties and let them simmer for 5 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper before serving.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Salisbury steak hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered egg noodles. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Ingredient Background

• Ground beef – The heart of this dish, using 80/20 beef ensures a juicy, flavorful patty.
• Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the patties together while keeping them tender.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and umami to both the patties and gravy.
• Dijon mustard – Provides a subtle tang that balances the richness.
• Beef broth – The base of the gravy, infusing it with a deep, savory flavor.

Technique Tips

• Don’t overmix the meat – Overworking the beef can make the patties dense and tough.
• Sear the patties well – A nice brown crust adds texture and flavor.
• Use a whisk for the gravy – This helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth consistency.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Serve over toasted bread for an open-faced sandwich.
• Make mini Salisbury steaks for sliders.
• Stuff into baked potatoes for a unique twist.

Additional Tips for Success

• Let the patties rest before serving to retain their juices.
• Taste the gravy and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Use fresh herbs for added brightness.

Recipe Variations

• Mushroom gravy – Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
• Turkey Salisbury steak – Swap beef for ground turkey for a leaner version.
• Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch instead of flour.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze cooked patties and gravy separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use lean ground beef or turkey.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for butter in the gravy.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium beef broth.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family dinner – Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans.
• Meal prep – Pair with brown rice and steamed broccoli.
• Potluck dish – Make a larger batch and serve with rolls.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. However, because turkey has less fat than beef, it can sometimes result in a drier texture. To keep turkey Salisbury steak moist and flavorful, consider adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil or a little more Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. You can also mix in finely grated onions or mushrooms to boost moisture content.

2. What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

The best way to thicken the gravy is by making a roux, which involves cooking flour and butter together before adding the liquid. This method ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy with a rich consistency. If you prefer a gluten-free alternative, cornstarch mixed with water (a slurry) is an effective thickener. Just mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering gravy until thickened. If your gravy is too thick, simply add a bit more beef broth to adjust the consistency.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Salisbury Steak and Gravy is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare the patties and cook them a day in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The gravy can also be made ahead of time and stored separately. When ready to serve, reheat everything in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the gravy smooth. This dish also freezes well—store the cooked steaks and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Salisbury steak is a comforting, mild dish that most kids love. The tender beef patties and rich gravy pair well with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, making it a great meal for picky eaters. If your child is sensitive to stronger flavors, you can reduce the Worcestershire sauce slightly and skip the optional soy sauce to keep the dish milder.

5. Can I add mushrooms to the gravy?

Yes! Mushrooms are a fantastic addition to Salisbury steak gravy. They add an earthy depth of flavor and extra texture to the dish. To incorporate mushrooms, simply slice them thin and sauté them with the onions before adding the flour. Cremini, baby bella, or button mushrooms all work well in this recipe.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can easily make this dish dairy-free. Instead of butter, use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for cooking the onions and making the roux. For the gravy, use unsweetened dairy-free milk (such as almond, oat, or soy milk) instead of regular milk. The result will still be a rich and flavorful dish without any dairy.

7. What sides pair best with Salisbury steak?

Salisbury steak is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many sides. Some of the best options include:

• Mashed potatoes – Classic and creamy, they soak up the rich gravy perfectly.
• Buttered egg noodles – A quick and simple option that complements the dish.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables – Green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add freshness and balance.
• Rice or quinoa – A great choice if you want to keep it simple but hearty.

8. Can I grill the patties instead of pan-frying?

Yes, you can grill the patties for a slightly different texture and a smoky flavor. If grilling, make sure to use a well-greased grill to prevent sticking, as Salisbury steak patties are more delicate than regular hamburgers. Grill over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Since the gravy is an essential part of the dish, you can make it separately on the stovetop and pour it over the grilled patties before serving.

Conclusion

Salisbury Steak and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food—a satisfying, rich, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or even serving it at a gathering, this recipe delivers in both taste and convenience. The tender, well-seasoned beef patties smothered in savory brown gravy create a meal that feels indulgent yet is easy and budget-friendly to prepare.

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can tweak the recipe to fit your dietary needs by using ground turkey, making it gluten-free, or adding mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor. It also pairs well with a variety of side dishes, allowing you to customize your meal to suit your preferences. Plus, Salisbury steak stores and reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

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