Salisbury Steak with Gravy is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender, flavorful beef patties simmered in a rich, savory onion and mushroom gravy. Often considered a homestyle favorite, this recipe provides the warm, satisfying feeling of a hearty meal without requiring complicated steps or expensive ingredients. The combination of seasoned meat, aromatic vegetables, and silky gravy creates a dish that feels indulgent yet down-to-earth. It’s the perfect dinner for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you crave something deeply comforting.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The patties are juicy, the gravy is deeply savory, and the ingredients are pantry staples many people already have. It’s a dish that delivers restaurant-style comfort without the fuss. Plus, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, making it versatile and family-friendly.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
Salisbury Steak is a must-try because:
- It’s a complete comfort meal that satisfies all cravings.
- It uses simple, inexpensive ingredients.
- The gravy enhances the flavor of the meat perfectly.
- It looks impressive but is easy to cook even for beginners.
- It’s freezer-friendly and great for meal prep.
Recipe Details
Preparation Time : 15 minutes
Cooking Time : 30 minutes
Servings : 4 servings
Calories (Approx.) : Around 400–480 calories per serving (varies with gravy and fat content)
Course : Dinner / Main Dish
Cuisine : American
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steaks
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional but adds moisture)
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, adds deeper color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Directions
- Mix all patty ingredients and shape into oval steaks.
- Brown the patties in a skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the gravy by sautéing onions and mushrooms.
- Add flour to make a roux, then slowly whisk in beef broth.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and ketchup; simmer.
- Return patties to skillet and cook until gravy thickens and patties are fully cooked.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes or noodles.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Make the Steak Patties
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and ketchup.
- Mix gently until ingredients are just combined.
- Shape mixture into 4 oval patties, pressing gently but firmly so they hold together.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil.
- Place the patties in the skillet and brown each side for 3–4 minutes.
- They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Remove and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
- In the same skillet, add butter and a bit more oil if needed.
- Sauté the sliced onions for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add mushrooms and cook until lightly browned.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in beef broth to avoid lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the gravy until it begins to thicken.
Step 4: Simmer the Patties
- Return the browned patties to the skillet.
- Spoon some gravy over the top.
- Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and gravy has thickened.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer patties to plates and ladle generous amounts of gravy over them.
- Serve warm.

How to Serve This Recipe
- Serve Salisbury steaks over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice.
- Add a vegetable side like green beans, roasted carrots, or steamed broccoli.
- Drizzle extra gravy on top for maximum flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Do not overmix the beef mixture; it keeps the patties tender.
- Finely mince the onion to help patties hold together.
- If gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth.
- If too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
- Browning the patties first adds deep flavor to the gravy.
Variations
Turkey Salisbury Steak
- Use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Add extra breadcrumbs or a splash of milk for moisture.
Gluten-Free Version
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute cornstarch for the flour.
Mushroom-Free Gravy
- Skip mushrooms and increase onions for a smoother, sweeter gravy.
Cheeseburger Salisbury Steak
- Add shredded cheddar to the patty mixture.
- Top with melted cheese before serving.
Smoky BBQ Style
- Replace ketchup in the gravy with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
Freezing and Storage Time
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing
- Freeze cooked patties with or without gravy for up to 3 months.
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore moisture.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
Conclusion
Salisbury Steak with Gravy is a beloved comfort dish that delivers rich, hearty flavors with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Its tender beef patties paired with savory onion-mushroom gravy create a warm, satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. The recipe is flexible, freezer-friendly, and ideal for feeding families or meal prepping ahead of time. Whether enjoyed over mashed potatoes or noodles, this classic dish brings homestyle comfort to every bite. Enjoy this timeless favorite and make it a regular part of your dinner routine.
Salisbury Steak with Gravy
Description
Salisbury Steak with Gravy is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender, flavorful beef patties simmered in a rich, savory onion and mushroom gravy. Often considered a homestyle favorite, this recipe provides the warm, satisfying feeling of a hearty meal without requiring complicated steps or expensive ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steaks
For the Gravy
Instructions
-
Step 1: Make the Steak Patties : In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and ketchup. Mix gently until ingredients are just combined. Shape mixture into 4 oval patties, pressing gently but firmly so they hold together.
-
Step 2: Brown the Patties : Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Place the patties in the skillet and brown each side for 3–4 minutes. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove and set aside on a plate.
-
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy : In the same skillet, add butter and a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the sliced onions for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until lightly browned. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in beef broth to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Simmer the gravy until it begins to thicken.
-
Step 4: Simmer the Patties : Return the browned patties to the skillet. Spoon some gravy over the top. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and gravy has thickened.
-
Step 5: Serve : Transfer patties to plates and ladle generous amounts of gravy over them. Serve warm.
