There’s something utterly comforting about the savory aroma wafting through my kitchen as I prepare Salisbury Steak. The sizzle of those perfectly shaped patties hitting the hot skillet instantly transports me back to family dinners where plates were filled with hearty meals and laughter echoed around the table. When I rediscovered this classic dish, I was reminded how satisfying it is—a simple recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to a busy weeknight.
After a long day, nothing beats a dish that is as easy to whip up as it is delicious to devour. With just a few pantry staples like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a handful of seasonings, I can create flavorful patties that are smothered in a rich, savory gravy. This isn’t just comfort food; it’s versatile enough to dress up for special occasions or keep it casual for a cozy family meal. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Salisbury Steak
- This Salisbury Steak recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
- You'll be amazed by the deep, savory flavors that come from simple ingredients like ground beef and pantry staples.
- Not only is it versatile enough to dress up for a special occasion, but it also satisfies the whole family during casual meals.
- Its inviting appearance, with those beautifully seared patties and rich gravy, makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Salisbury Steak Ingredients
For the Patties
• Ground beef – provides a rich, hearty base for your Salisbury Steak.
• Breadcrumbs – helps bind the mixture and adds texture; consider using panko for extra crunch.
• Large egg – acts as a binder to keep the patties moist and cohesive.
• Yellow onion (divided) – adds sweetness and depth; use half in the patties and half for the gravy.
• Salt and pepper – essential seasonings for enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
For the Gravy
• Low-sodium beef broth – creates a savory sauce that enhances the flavors of your Salisbury Steak.
• Soy sauce – adds umami depth; you can use a low-sodium version if preferred.
• Worcestershire sauce – brings a tangy complexity that elevates the gravy's taste.
• Flour – used for thickening your gravy, ensuring it clings beautifully to the patties.
For Cooking
• Oil for cooking – a neutral oil like vegetable or canola is perfect for searing your patties.
How to Make Salisbury Steak
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Chop the Onion: Finely chop half of the yellow onion and set it aside. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; you want to keep a tender texture!
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Shape the Patties: Shape the mixture into four oval patties, about one inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and gives that classic Salisbury Steak look!
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Sear the Patties: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the patties and sear them for about three minutes per side until they’re nicely browned but not fully cooked through. This adds a wonderful flavor!
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Sauté the Onion: Remove the patties and sauté the remaining chopped onion in the same skillet until translucent. The fond left in the pan adds extra depth to your gravy!
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Make the Gravy: Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then gradually add the beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until smooth. Bring this deliciousness to a simmer to meld those flavors!
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Finish Cooking: Return the patties to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for about ten minutes until they are fully cooked through, tender, and nestled in that savory gravy.
Optional: Serve with mashed potatoes for a comforting combination.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Salisbury Steak?
After a long day of cooking up this delicious comfort food, pair it with sides that elevate and harmonize the flavors of your Salisbury Steak for a delightful meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture soaks up the rich gravy, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that's classic and comforting.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a pop of color and freshness, balancing the heartiness of the steak with a light garlicky bite.
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Buttered Corn: Sweet and tender corn kernels provide a delightful contrast to the savory meat, offering a burst of sweetness on your plate.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These nutty, caramelized gems lend an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the umami notes in the Salisbury Steak.
Indulge your sweet tooth by finishing off your meal with a dessert:
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Apple Crisp: The warm, spiced apples and crunchy topping make for a perfect partner to round out your plate after your savory dishes.
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Red Wine: A smooth red wine complements the richness of the meat, enhancing your dining experience and making it feel special.
Every bite will take you back to family dinners, filled with joy and love. Enjoy!
Salisbury Steak Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful alternatives that will add a unique twist to your beloved Salisbury Steak!
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Lean Ground Beef: Swap regular ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken to lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a naturally gluten-free Salisbury Steak that everyone can enjoy.
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Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or an assortment of finely chopped mushrooms for a plant-based version rich in flavor.
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Extra Flavor: Incorporate minced garlic and herbs like thyme or rosemary into the meat mixture for a fresh, aromatic punch.
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Cheesy Touch: Fold in grated cheese, such as sharp cheddar or parmesan, into the patties for a melty surprise with each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a dash of red pepper flakes to the gravy for those who crave a little heat.
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Onion Variations: Experiment with caramelized onions instead of sautéed ones for a sweeter, more complex flavor in your gravy.
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Savory Mushroom Gravy: Enhance the gravy by adding sautéed mushrooms, lending an earthy richness that complements the patties perfectly. Insert those mushrooms into the pan right after sautéing the onions for an extra savory note!
How to Store and Freeze Salisbury Steak
Fridge: Store cooked Salisbury Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the gravy is included to keep the patties moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to avoid dryness. Enjoy your comforting Salisbury Steak again!
Make Ahead Options
These Salisbury Steaks are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, then shape them into patties and cover tightly. This way, the flavors meld beautifully! For the gravy, it’s best to make it fresh; however, you can chop the onions in advance and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, sear the patties and finish cooking them in the gravy, ensuring a comforting meal that's just as delicious as if made fresh!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Salisbury Steak, be careful not to overmix the beef mixture to keep the patties tender.
- To shape your patties evenly, use a kitchen scale to portion out the meat for consistent sizes.
- Searing the patties on medium heat is crucial to develop a nice crust without cooking them all the way through.
- For a perfect gravy, ensure you whisk the flour in well to avoid lumps, and allow it to cook for a minute before adding the liquids to enhance the flavor.
- Ensure the simmering time is sufficient for the patties to cook completely while absorbing the delicious gravy.
Salisbury Steak Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef for Salisbury Steak?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef for Salisbury Steak, go for a blend that has about 80% lean to 20% fat. This balance ensures moist, flavorful patties without being overly greasy. Fresh ground beef should have a bright red color and should not have an off-putting smell.
How do I store leftover Salisbury Steak?
Very! To keep your homemade Salisbury Steak fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the patties with the gravy, as this helps retain moisture and flavor. If you're transferring to the fridge from the stovetop, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes for the best results.
Can Salisbury Steak be frozen?
Absolutely! Freezing is a fantastic way to preserve your Salisbury Steak. Start by laying the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze them until solid, about 1-2 hours, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. For best results, label the bag with the date!
What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
If your gravy ends up thicker than desired, no worries! Simply whisk in a little extra beef broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency. Make sure to reheat it gently on low heat as you add the liquid to maintain flavor.
Can I make Salisbury Steak gluten-free?
The more the merrier! To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Instead of all-purpose flour for the gravy, use a gluten-free flour blend as a thickener. These swaps will maintain the flavor and texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Is Salisbury Steak safe for my pet?
Very much! While it's okay to share a small bite of unseasoned Salisbury Steak with your dog, make sure to avoid any gravy or seasoning. Ingredients like onions and certain sauces can be harmful to pets. Stick to plain, well-cooked beef without additives for a safe treat!
Salisbury Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely chop half of the yellow onion and set it aside. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into four oval patties, about one inch thick.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the patties and sear them for about three minutes per side until browned.
- Remove the patties and sauté the remaining chopped onion in the same skillet until translucent.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then gradually add the beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until smooth. Bring this to a simmer.
- Return the patties to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for about ten minutes until fully cooked through.
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