Comfort food at its finest, Salisbury Steak is a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This recipe features tender ground beef patties smothered in a luscious mushroom gravy that elevates the meal to new heights. Perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals, this Salisbury steak is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Patties
- For the Gravy
- How to Make Salisbury Steak
- Step 1: Prepare the Patties
- Step 2: Brown the Patties
- Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Step 4: Add Stock and Seasoning
- Step 5: Combine Patties with Gravy
- Step 6: Serve Your Dish
- How to Serve Salisbury Steak
- Classic Mashed Potatoes
- Fresh Green Salad
- Steamed Vegetables
- Egg Noodles
- Rice Pilaf
- Crusty Bread
- How to Perfect Salisbury Steak
- Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Salisbury Steak
- Reheating Salisbury Steak
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Salisbury Steak?
- How do I know when Salisbury Steak is done?
- Can I make Salisbury Steak ahead of time?
- What should I serve with Salisbury Steak?
- Is there a healthier version of Salisbury Steak?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love.
- Flavorful Gravy: The homemade mushroom gravy adds an irresistible depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef patties.
- Versatile: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly: This classic dish is often a hit with kids, making it a great option for family dinners.
- Freezable: Leftovers can be stored in the freezer for quick meals later on without losing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delightful Salisbury steak recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Retains heat evenly, perfect for browning meat and making gravies.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
- Spatula: Useful for flipping patties while ensuring they hold their shape during cooking.
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- pinch of salt
For the Gravy
- 1 large vidalia onion (diced)
- 4 ounces sliced white mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 1/2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
- 3 cups beef stock
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
How to Make Salisbury Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
In a large bowl, use your hands to blend together the following:
1. Lean ground beef
2. Panko bread crumbs
3. Tomato paste
4. Worcestershire sauce
5. Ground mustard
6. Onion powder
7. Fresh ground pepper
8. A pinch of salt
Once combined, divide the mixture into four equal portions and form each into oval patties about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet. Add the patties to the pan:
Cook until browned, approximately 2–3 minutes.
Turn them over and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until browned on both sides.
Transfer cooked patties to a platter and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Pour off excess fat from the pan and return it to heat. Add diced onions:
Cook until translucent.
Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened.
Stir in thyme, garlic powder, and flour; cook for another minute.
Step 4: Add Stock and Seasoning
Slowly pour in beef stock while scraping up brown bits from the bottom:
Stir in Worcestershire sauce.
Bring mixture to boil; when gravy thickens, lower heat.
Stir in butter; season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Patties with Gravy
Return the beef patties to the pan:
Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes or until they are no longer pink in the center.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately over your choice of side dish like mashed potatoes or noodles for a comforting meal!
How to Serve Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a hearty dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Classic Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a traditional pairing that absorbs the rich gravy beautifully, adding comfort to every bite.
Fresh Green Salad
- A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the savory steak.
Steamed Vegetables
- Seasonal steamed vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, provide color and nutrients, balancing the meal without overwhelming flavors.
Egg Noodles
- Tender egg noodles tossed in butter make an excellent base for the savory gravy, complementing the flavors of Salisbury steak perfectly.
Rice Pilaf
- Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs can soak up the delicious sauce, making each mouthful satisfying and tasty.
Crusty Bread
- Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich mushroom gravy, enhancing the overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Salisbury Steak
To ensure your Salisbury steak turns out fantastic every time, consider these simple tips.
-
Use lean beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option that still has great flavor without excessive fat.
-
Don’t overwork the meat: Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep your patties tender instead of tough.
-
Rest your patties: Allow formed patties to rest before cooking to help them hold their shape and enhance flavor during cooking.
-
Cook on medium heat: Avoid high heat to prevent burning; medium heat allows for even cooking and caramelization on the patties.
-
Deglaze properly: Scrape up browned bits from the pan when adding stock; this adds depth and richness to your gravy.
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Adjust seasoning last: Taste your gravy after it thickens before adding salt; it helps avoid over-seasoning at the beginning.
Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak
Complement your Salisbury steak with these delicious side dishes that round out a comforting meal.
-
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes blended with roasted garlic create an irresistible side that pairs perfectly with rich gravy.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts add a nutty flavor profile that balances well with the savory steak.
-
Creamed Spinach: This classic dish brings a creamy texture and slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the meat’s richness.
-
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness and crunch—perfect in summer months when it’s fresh.
-
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the heaviness of the steak dish.
-
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the savory flavors of Salisbury steak beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salisbury steak can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the meat: Mixing the ingredients too much can make your patties tough. Gently combine the ground beef and other ingredients until just mixed.
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the patties first will miss out on flavor. Ensure you take time to brown each patty before adding it to the gravy.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoned steak can taste bland. Be generous with salt and pepper and taste your gravy as you go!
- Rushing the gravy: Allowing the gravy to develop flavors is key. Cook it slowly, scraping up those tasty bits from the pan for a richer sauce.
- Not letting it rest: Serving immediately may cause your patties to dry out. Let them rest briefly after cooking for juicier results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Salisbury steak in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Salisbury Steak
- Place cooked Salisbury steak in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salisbury Steak
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-4 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of beef stock or water until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Salisbury steak that might help you further:
What is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak is a comfort food dish made from seasoned ground beef formed into patties, often served with gravy. It’s similar to a hamburger but cooked differently.
How do I know when Salisbury Steak is done?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). You can also cut into one patty; it should be no longer pink in the center.
Can I make Salisbury Steak ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them before cooking. This makes meal prep easy!
What should I serve with Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. A side of steamed vegetables also complements this dish nicely.
Is there a healthier version of Salisbury Steak?
You can use leaner cuts of meat or ground turkey instead of beef. Also, reducing added fats and sugars in the gravy can lower calories.
Final Thoughts
This recipe for Salisbury steak brings together rich flavors and comforting textures that make it an ideal dinner choice. Its versatility allows for endless customization, whether adding different herbs or using alternative meats. Try this delightful dish tonight and experience its heartwarming taste!
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Salisbury Steak
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Salisbury Steak is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender ground beef patties with a rich and savory mushroom gravy. This nostalgic dish is perfect for family dinners or a cozy weeknight meal. In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Whether you serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, this Salisbury steak recipe promises to deliver delicious flavors and hearty textures that will leave your family asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large Vidalia onion (diced)
- 4 ounces sliced white mushrooms
- 3 cups beef stock
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 1/2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon butter
- kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground beef with panko breadcrumbs, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, onion powder, pepper, and salt until just combined.
- Form the mixture into four oval patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the patties on both sides; transfer them to a platter to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions until translucent; then add mushrooms and cook until softened.
- Stir in thyme and garlic powder; sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for an additional minute.
- Gradually pour in beef stock while scraping up browned bits; stir in Worcestershire sauce and bring to a boil.
- Return patties to the skillet and simmer in gravy until cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).
- Serve immediately garnished with parsley or chives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty with gravy (200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg