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If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that tastes like a big warm hug, you have to try this homemade Salisbury steak recipe. I still remember the first time I made it from scratch. I grew up with those old-school TV dinners (you know the ones — the little trays with mashed potatoes, corn, and a Salisbury steak swimming in gravy). But once I made my own, I never looked back. Juicy seasoned beef patties, golden-brown and simmered in a savory onion mushroom gravy — it’s nostalgic, satisfying, and so simple to make.

Whether you serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed rice, Salisbury steak is that feel-good dinner that always hits the spot. This recipe uses pantry staples like ground beef, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth — all easy to find, no fancy ingredients needed. Don’t worry if this is your first time making it from scratch — I’ll walk you through every step!

Why You’ll Love This Salisbury Steak Recipe

This old-fashioned Salisbury steak recipe is everything you love about classic comfort food — with a fresh, homemade twist.

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes, with minimal prep.
  • Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these tender beef patties with rich gravy.
  • Pantry Staples: Uses simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
  • Better Than Frozen: A million times better than the TV dinner version!
  • Customizable: Adjust seasonings, swap the mushrooms, or make it gluten-free.

Looking for an easy, comforting steak recipe that comes together in one skillet? This is it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need for this classic Salisbury steak recipe.

For the Beef Patties:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (85% lean works best)
  • 1/3 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Onion Gravy:

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional but tasty)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Mini Tip:
Use low-sodium beef broth so you can better control the saltiness of your gravy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t worry if you need to swap an ingredient — here are some easy alternatives!

  • Ground Beef: Try half ground beef, half ground turkey for a lighter version.
  • Bread Crumbs: Panko or crushed saltine crackers work in a pinch.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Substitute with soy sauce and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar umami kick.
  • Mushrooms: Skip them if you’re not a fan — the gravy is still rich and delicious.
  • Flour: For gluten-free, use cornstarch instead — just mix with a bit of cold broth to make a slurry.

How to Make Salisbury Steak

Let’s break this down step by step — you’ve got this!

1. Make the Beef Patties (5–10 minutes)

  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix gently with your hands until just combined — don’t overwork it.
  • Form into 4–6 oval-shaped patties.

2. Brown the Patties (6–8 minutes)

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the beef patties and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned. (They don’t need to be cooked through yet.)
  • Transfer patties to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Onion Gravy (10–12 minutes)

  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add sliced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in mushrooms and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
  • Sprinkle flour over the onions and mushrooms; stir well and cook for 1 minute.
  • Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
  • Add Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the gravy thickens slightly.

4. Simmer the Patties (10–15 minutes)

  • Return the beef patties to the skillet, spoon some gravy over each one.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the patties are cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F).
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Spoon extra gravy over each Salisbury steak and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

Expert Tips for Success

Don’t Overmix the Beef: Overworking makes the patties tough. Mix just until combined.
Use Medium-High Heat: Helps get a good sear for that golden crust.
Keep It Moist: The egg and bread crumbs keep the patties juicy.
Deglaze for Flavor: Scrape up browned bits when adding broth — that’s where the flavor hides!
Let It Simmer: Simmering helps the beef patties soak up all that savory gravy.

simple salisbury steak recipe

Variations & Add-Ons

Want to put your own spin on this Salisbury steak recipe? Try these ideas:

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and swap the flour for cornstarch.
  • Mushroom-Free: Omit mushrooms if your family isn’t a fan.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy.
  • Cheesy: Top each patty with a slice of provolone or Swiss before serving.
  • Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

A comforting plate of Salisbury steak deserves delicious sides! Here’s what I love to serve it with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes (a classic pairing!)
  • Buttered egg noodles or white rice
  • Steamed green beans, peas, or roasted carrots
  • A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
  • A glass of iced tea or a cozy mug of beef broth on the side

For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top right before serving!

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Freezer: Salisbury steak freezes well! Freeze patties and gravy together in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the gravy. Microwave works too — cover and heat in 30-second bursts.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Approximate values:

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbs: 14g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 680mg

Prep, Cook & Total Time

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal Time
10 minutes30 minutes40 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Salisbury steak ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape and brown the patties ahead of time, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, simmer in gravy until cooked through.

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

Salisbury steak is seasoned ground beef with bread crumbs and gravy, while hamburger steak is usually plain beef served without the rich onion gravy.

Can I freeze Salisbury steak?

Absolutely! Freeze cooked patties and gravy in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free bread crumbs and replace flour with cornstarch for the gravy.

What’s the best side dish for Salisbury steak?

Mashed potatoes are classic! Egg noodles, steamed veggies, or rice also pair perfectly with Salisbury steak and gravy.

Conclusion

There you have it — your new go-to Salisbury steak recipe for a cozy, comforting meal that tastes like home. These juicy beef patties smothered in rich onion gravy are simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for Sunday dinner. I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does! If you try it, leave a comment, rate it below, or share your favorite twist. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

salisbury steak recipe

Salisbury Steak Recipe

When you’re in the mood for true comfort food, nothing hits the spot like homemade Salisbury steak. Growing up, I was all about those classic TV dinners with the Salisbury steak and mashed potatoes — but once I learned to make it from scratch, I was hooked. Tender, flavorful beef patties simmered in a rich onion and mushroom gravy taste so much better than anything from a box. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and surprisingly easy — the perfect weeknight meal that feels like a warm, cozy hug
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • For the Beef Patties:
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 85% lean works best
  • 1/3 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
  • For the Onion Gravy:
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms optional but tasty
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Make the Beef Patties (5–10 minutes)
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently with your hands until just combined — don’t overwork it.
  4. Form into 4–6 oval-shaped patties.
  5. Brown the Patties (6–8 minutes)
  6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  7. Add the beef patties and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned. (They don’t need to be cooked through yet.)
  8. Transfer patties to a plate and set aside.
  9. Make the Onion Gravy (10–12 minutes)
  10. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  11. Add sliced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  12. Stir in mushrooms and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
  13. Sprinkle flour over the onions and mushrooms; stir well and cook for 1 minute.
  14. Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
  15. Add Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the gravy thickens slightly.
  16. Simmer the Patties (10–15 minutes)
  17. Return the beef patties to the skillet, spoon some gravy over each one.
  18. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the patties are cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F).
  19. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  20. Serve & Enjoy!
  21. Spoon extra gravy over each Salisbury steak and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

Notes

Don’t Overmix the Beef: Overworking makes the patties tough. Mix just until combined.
Use Medium-High Heat: Helps get a good sear for that golden crust.
Keep It Moist: The egg and bread crumbs keep the patties juicy.
Deglaze for Flavor: Scrape up browned bits when adding broth — that’s where the flavor hides!
Let It Simmer: Simmering helps the beef patties soak up all that savory gravy.

Hi, I’m Daniel Brian – a passionate food blogger and cooking expert with a love for turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. With years of experience in the kitchen and a deep appreciation for global flavors, I share tested recipes, cooking tips, and flavor-packed dishes to inspire home cooks of all levels. Whether it’s comfort food, quick weeknight dinners, or impressive dishes for guests, I’m here to help you cook with confidence and creativity. Let’s make every meal something to look forward to!

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