Sometimes, all you need is a comforting, hearty meal to bring everyone together. That’s exactly what this Salisbury steak recipe did for me the first time I made it. The tender patties smothered in rich, flavorful gravy were like a warm hug in the form of food.
I’ve made this dish countless times since, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe will win you over with its simplicity and taste. Plus, with a few tweaks here and there, it can easily fit into your lifestyle preferences.

Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- Ground beef: 1 lb
- Breadcrumbs: ½ cup
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Milk: ¼ cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Pepper: ¼ tsp
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Beef broth: 2 cups
- Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
Note: This recipe serves 4 people.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some great variations to cater to different tastes and diets.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace milk with almond or coconut milk. Use vegan butter for the gravy.
- Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef and opt for whole-wheat breadcrumbs.
- Add More Flavor: Incorporate chopped garlic, smoked paprika, or a dash of soy sauce into the patty mixture.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat and use veggie broth for the gravy.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach into the patties for added nutrition. For those following a low-carb lifestyle, you might love these keto ribeye steak recipes for inspiration.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You Need
Here’s the list of tools you’ll need with their uses:
- Mixing Bowl: To combine all the patty ingredients.
- Frying Pan: For cooking both the patties and the gravy.
- Whisk: To mix gravy and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Measuring Cups: For accurate ingredient quantities.
- Spatula: To handle the patties and stir the gravy.
How to Create This Salisbury Steak Masterpiece?
Here’s how to cook Salisbury Making Salisbury steak is easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious homemade meal in no time.
Preparing the Patties
The first step is to create those flavorful patties. Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onions, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. I like to use my hands to gently mix everything together; just be careful not to overmix as this can make the patties tough. Once mixed, shape the mixture into oval patties about half an inch thick. Aim for a uniform size for even cooking.
Cooking the Patties
Heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the patties and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re browned and cooked through. This not only locks in the flavor but also creates those tasty brown bits, which will add depth to your gravy later. Once done, transfer the patties to a plate and set them aside.
Making the Gravy
Using the same pan, melt butter and stir in sliced mushrooms and onions. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized. Now sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring continuously for a minute to form a roux. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. The mixture will start thickening into a luscious gravy. Add salt and pepper to taste and stir for another minute or two.
Bringing It All Together
Here’s where the magic happens. Return the cooked patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some gravy over the patties to ensure they’re well-coated. Let the patties simmer in the gravy for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve hot, and get ready for compliments!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This Salisbury steak recipe is bound to become a family favorite. Here’s why:
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, even on busy weeknights.
- The ingredients are simple and affordable.
- It’s versatile; adjust it to fit different dietary needs.
- The rich, comforting taste makes it perfect for family meals.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, if not better! You can also enjoy similar hearty dishes like this perfect grilled steak recipe.
How to Serve Salisbury Steak Recipe?
Presentation matters, especially when serving a dish this beautiful. Place each patty on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up the gravy. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color. For a balanced plate, serve with a side of steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh garden salad. It’s a meal as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 22g
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is wonderful for meal prepping or whenever you’re aiming for some ready-to-enjoy comfort food.
Storing in the Fridge
You can store Salisbury steak and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid drying out the meat.
Freezing for Later
If you want to prep ahead, cook the patties and gravy separately and freeze them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a splash of broth while reheating the gravy to restore its smooth consistency.
Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some personal tips I’ve learned while perfecting this recipe:
- If you’re serving kids, you can omit the mushrooms or finely chop them so they blend into the gravy.
- Use cold milk when mixing the patties; it keeps the meat mixture light and moist.
- Don’t skip browning the patties thoroughly. This step layers in so much flavor!
- Be patient while making the gravy. Slowly whisking the broth in ensures a silky, lump-free consistency.
- Double the gravy if you’re a sauce lover; it’s that good! Explore more lunch recipes for inspiration.
For more details, watch this YouTube video:

Salisbury Steak Recipe
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Breadcrumbs
- Onion
- Milk
- Egg
- Worcestershire sauce
- Beef broth
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Mushrooms
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Start by mixing the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined. Shape the mixture into oval patties, ensuring they’re about ½ inch thick. Don’t overwork the meat—this keeps the patties tender.
- Heat some oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place your patties in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Once done, set them aside on a plate to rest.
- Using the same pan, melt butter. Stir in the onions and mushrooms, letting them cook until soft and fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the veggies, stirring constantly for a minute. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking to ensure there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Return your cooked patties to the pan, allowing them to simmer in the gravy for an extra touch of flavor. Cook for 2-3 minutes, spooning gravy over the steaks to coat them evenly.
Notes
- Always use cold milk in the patty mixture—it blends better and keeps the patties moist.
- Brown your patties thoroughly before removing them. This locks in flavor and leaves behind those delicious bits in the pan for your gravy.
- Don’t rush the gravy! Stirring flour properly in butter ensures a smooth, lump-free finish.
- If you want more savory depth, add a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the gravy.
This recipe is useful…easy to make with proper instructions