Salisbury Steak

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Salisbury steak is the definition of cozy, classic comfort food. Tender beef patties seasoned and seared to perfection, smothered in rich brown onion gravy, and served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. This dish brings back memories of Sunday dinners at home, the kind where everyone comes back for seconds—and maybe thirds.

The beauty of Salisbury steak lies in its simplicity. It’s made from humble ingredients that, when brought together, create an incredibly satisfying and savory experience. Whether you’re looking to feed your family or make a comforting meal for two, this recipe fits the bill with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the juiciest and most flavorful Salisbury steak, opt for 80/20 ground beef. The 20% fat content helps the patties stay moist and tender while adding a rich depth to the overall taste. Leaner beef can work in a pinch, but it may not deliver the same melt-in-your-mouth experience.

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Ingredients for the Salisbury Steak

Ground Beef – This is the foundation of the steak patties. A higher fat content makes them juicy and flavorful.

Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture together while adding a tender texture to the patties.

Egg – Acts as the glue that holds everything in shape when cooked.

Onion – Chopped and sautéed, it brings sweet and savory notes to the dish and infuses the gravy with flavor.

Garlic – Just a touch enhances the beefy richness and makes the entire dish more aromatic.

Beef Broth – This is the base of your gravy, giving it a deep, savory backbone.

Worcestershire Sauce – Adds that signature umami punch and balances the richness.

Flour – Used to thicken the gravy to that perfect, velvety consistency.

Butter – For sautéing and adding luxurious flavor to both the patties and the gravy.

Parsley (optional) – Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a mild herbal note to finish.

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How To Make the Salisbury Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Patties

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork the meat or the patties could turn out tough. Form the mixture into evenly sized oval patties.

Step 2: Sear the Patties

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the patties and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. They don’t need to be cooked through yet. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add another tablespoon of butter. Toss in the sliced onions and cook until softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for the gravy.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.

Step 5: Simmer the Patties in Gravy

Return the seared patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the gravy has thickened.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the luscious onion gravy over each patty and serve hot, ideally over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like a pop of color and freshness.

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How to Serve and Store Salisbury Steak

Salisbury steak is best served piping hot with a generous ladle of that rich onion gravy. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even over creamy polenta. For a balanced meal, serve it alongside steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh salad.

To store leftovers, let the steak and gravy cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickens too much. Salisbury steak also freezes well—just place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Salisbury steak and hamburger steak?

While both use ground beef, Salisbury steak typically includes seasonings like Worcestershire sauce and is served with a rich onion gravy. Hamburger steak is often more minimal and may be served with different sauces or toppings.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option. Just be sure to add extra seasoning and maybe a splash of broth to keep the patties moist.

Why are my patties falling apart?

This usually happens if there aren’t enough binders like breadcrumbs or egg, or if the patties are overhandled. Mix until just combined and chill the patties for 10-15 minutes before cooking to help them stay together.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can form the patties and refrigerate them a day ahead. The gravy can also be made in advance and stored separately, then reheated and combined before serving.

How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

Let it simmer a bit longer uncovered, or mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with cold broth and stir it into the gravy until it thickens to your liking.

Is this gluten-free?

Not by default, but it can be! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Be sure to also check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

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Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If you love this rich and hearty Salisbury steak, you’ll definitely want to try these other comforting beef recipes:

• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta with a cheesy twist on a weeknight classic. Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta
• One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta for a bold, one-pan dinner with heat and creamy goodness. One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta
• Mississippi Beef and Noodles for a comforting slow-cooked meal perfect for any day of the week. Mississippi Beef and Noodles
• Beefy Cheesy Fries Burrito when you’re craving handheld comfort packed with flavor. Beefy Cheesy Fries Burrito
• Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce if you’re looking for a slow-simmered sauce packed with Italian flavor. Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce

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Looking for even more inspiration? Browse my daily dinner and comfort food creations over on my Pinterest: Life with Nina Recipes.

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