Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Salisbury Steak is the definition of cozy comfort food. Juicy, flavorful beef patties are seared to perfection, then simmered in a savory, velvety gravy that’s packed with onion flavor. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a dish that tastes just as good the next day—if not better!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Milk
• Worcestershire sauce
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or butter (for cooking)
• Yellow onion, thinly sliced
• Beef broth
• Ketchup
• Dijon or yellow mustard
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into oval patties, about ¾ inch thick.
3. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and sear on both sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until softened and golden brown.
5. Stir in beef broth, ketchup, and mustard. Bring to a simmer and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the gravy. Simmer until thickened.
7. Return the patties to the skillet, spoon gravy over them, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the patties are cooked through.
8. Serve hot, topped with extra gravy and a sprinkle of parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Mushroom gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions for a rich, earthy flavor.
• Onion-free version: Skip the onions and use onion powder for flavor if preferred.
• Healthier option: Use lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken.
• Spicy twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to loosen the gravy. Salisbury steak also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What is Salisbury steak made of?

It’s made from ground beef mixed with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and egg, shaped into patties, and served with a brown gravy.

Can I make Salisbury steak without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice as a substitute.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

Cornstarch is easiest, but you can also use flour whisked into butter for a roux.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely—just note that leaner meats may cook faster and need less simmering time.

How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Make sure to include enough binder (egg and breadcrumbs) and avoid overmixing the meat.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, prepare the patties and gravy separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

What sides go well with Salisbury steak?

Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully.

Can I add mushrooms to the gravy?

Yes, mushrooms add a rich, hearty flavor and make the gravy even better.

Can I bake Salisbury steak instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, then pour gravy over before serving.

Is Salisbury steak the same as hamburger steak?

They’re similar, but Salisbury steak typically has added seasonings and is served with a thicker gravy.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak is a timeless dish that brings classic comfort to your dinner table. With juicy beef patties, rich onion gravy, and simple ingredients, it’s a hearty, homemade meal that never goes out of style. Whether served with mashed potatoes or noodles, this dish is pure, satisfying nostalgia in every bite.

Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak

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Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak is a classic comfort food featuring tender, seasoned beef patties smothered in rich brown onion gravy. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy family dinner served over mashed potatoes or noodles.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp Dijon or yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into oval patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
3. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties on both sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until softened and golden brown.
5. Pour in the beef broth, ketchup, and mustard. Stir and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Whisk the cornstarch slurry and stir it into the gravy. Simmer until thickened.
7. Return the patties to the skillet, spoon gravy over them, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, topped with gravy and sprinkled with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Do not overmix the beef mixture to keep patties tender.
• Use mushrooms for a richer, more flavorful gravy.
• For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and sauce.
• Can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of broth.
• Perfectly pairs with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg