The Best Salisbury Steak – A Classic, Hearty Comfort Food

Introduction

Salisbury steak is an old-fashioned diner favorite that never goes out of style. Made with seasoned ground beef patties simmered in a rich onion and mushroom gravy, this dish is the ultimate comfort food — savory, tender, and deeply satisfying.

Whether served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, it’s a family-friendly dinner that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. This version elevates the classic with better browning, deeper seasoning, and a silky homemade gravy that’s absolutely irresistible.

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Ingredients Overview

For the Steaks:

• Ground beef: 85/15 is ideal for flavor and moisture.
• Breadcrumbs and egg: Bind the patties and keep them tender.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds deep umami flavor.
• Garlic and onion powder: For classic savory flavor.
• Dijon mustard: Optional, but adds a tangy backbone.

For the Gravy:

• Onions and mushrooms: Caramelize and build the base of the gravy.
• Beef broth: Rich and flavorful — low-sodium preferred.
• Worcestershire sauce: Layers more umami into the sauce.
• Flour and butter: Forms a quick roux for thickening.
• Optional cream: For a richer, silkier finish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Patties

In a large bowl, combine:

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Mix gently (don’t overwork!) and shape into 4–6 oval patties.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

In a large skillet, heat:

• 1 tbsp oil + 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat

Sear patties for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet).

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add:

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced

Sauté for 6–8 minutes until caramelized.

Sprinkle in:

• 2 tbsp flour

Stir to coat, then slowly whisk in:

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Simmer until slightly thickened, 3–5 minutes.

Optional: Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream for extra richness.

Step 4: Simmer the Steaks

Return patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.

Cover and simmer on low for 10–12 minutes until cooked through and tender. Flip once and spoon gravy over top.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Add herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary boosts flavor.
• Mushroom-free: Omit mushrooms and double onions.
• Make it lighter: Use ground turkey and chicken broth.
• Stretch it: Add finely chopped veggies (like carrots or zucchini) to the patties.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Serve Salisbury steak with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Steamed green beans or roasted carrots

Perfect for:

• Cozy weeknight dinners
• Sunday comfort meals
• Make-ahead lunches (gravy reheats beautifully)

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Nutritional & Health Notes

• Protein-rich: Ground beef offers a satisfying protein base.
• Control sodium: Use low-sodium broth and season to taste.
• Balanced: Add steamed veggies for a well-rounded plate.
• Gluten-free: Use GF breadcrumbs and flour or cornstarch.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead?

Yes, just add a bit more seasoning and be gentle when shaping.

Q2: Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely — it reheats well and the flavors deepen overnight.

Q3: Can I freeze Salisbury steak?

Yes — freeze patties and gravy in a container for up to 2 months.

Q4: How do I thicken gravy without flour?

Use cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water).

Q5: What’s the difference between Salisbury steak and hamburger steak?

Salisbury steak is usually seasoned with sauces and spices, and served with rich gravy; hamburger steak is simpler and often grilled or pan-fried with minimal additions.

Q6: Can I skip the mushrooms?

Totally — use more onions or add shallots for sweetness.

Q7: What if my gravy is too thick?

Thin it with a splash of broth or water until desired consistency.

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