Salisbury Steak
Comfort food at its finest, Salisbury Steak is a hearty dish that brings joy to the dinner table. With savory ground beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom gravy, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
- Rich Flavor: The homemade mushroom gravy elevates the dish with deep, savory notes.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for an exciting twist.
- Kid-Friendly Dish: Its familiar flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Salisbury steak, gather all your tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking for your patties.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent flavor.
- Spatula: Ideal for flipping patties without breaking them apart.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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
– 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
How to Make Salisbury Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
In a large bowl, use your hands to blend together the beef, bread crumbs, tomato paste, worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, onion powder, pepper, and salt until well combined. Divide the beef mixture into four equal size portions and form into oval patties about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large cast iron skillet. Add the patties to the pan and cook until browned, approximately 2–3 minutes. Turn the patties over and cook for another 3–4 minutes or until browned. Transfer to a platter and keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms
Pour off the fat in the pan and return it to the heat. Add the onions to the pan and cook until translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook until softened. Stir in thyme, garlic powder, and flour; cook for 1 minute.
Step 4: Create the Gravy
Slowly add beef stock while scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen brown bits. Stir in worcestershire sauce and bring to a boil. When gravy begins to thicken, turn down the heat and stir in butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Patties with Gravy
Return the beef patties to the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes or until they are no longer pink in the middle.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Sprinkle with parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides!
How to Serve Salisbury Steak
Serving Salisbury steak can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with the right sides and garnishes. This classic dish is best enjoyed hot and can be complemented in various ways to elevate your meal.
Serve with Egg Noodles
- Egg noodles are a traditional pairing that soak up the rich mushroom gravy beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
Accompany with Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting base for your Salisbury steak and are perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy.
Add Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed or sautéed green beans or broccoli add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate, balancing the richness of the meat.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley or chives not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of flavor that complements the savory steak.
Include a Side Salad
- A light side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty Salisbury steak.

How to Perfect Salisbury Steak
To ensure that your Salisbury steak turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve a flavorful and juicy result that will impress everyone at the dinner table.
- Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef ensures that your patties remain juicy without excess fat rendering into the pan.
- Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your patties tender rather than tough.
- Brown thoroughly: Allowing the patties to brown well enhances the flavor from the Maillard reaction, giving your dish depth.
- Scrape the pan: When making the gravy, be sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan; they add incredible flavor.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving; adding extra salt or pepper can elevate its taste significantly.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let your Salisbury steaks rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their juices.
Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak
Pairing side dishes with Salisbury steak enhances its overall appeal. Here are some great suggestions that complement this comforting meal beautifully.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until slightly crispy provide an earthy flavor that pairs well with rich meat.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a tangy note, balancing out the savory flavors of the Salisbury steak.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and nutritious, baked sweet potatoes offer an excellent contrast to savory gravy.
- Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that adds sweetness and freshness to your plate.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes for an excellent base for soaking up delicious gravy.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic provides nutrients while complementing the hearty flavors of Salisbury steak.
- Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread serves as an excellent vehicle for scooping up gravy and adds an aromatic touch to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salisbury steak can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the bread crumbs: Many people forget to add bread crumbs, which help bind the patties together. Use panko for a better texture.
- Overcooking the patties: Cooking patties too long can make them dry. Aim for a nice golden brown on each side and check for doneness.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoned meat can lead to bland flavor. Don’t skip salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the taste.
- Using low-quality beef: The quality of meat directly affects the taste and texture. Choose lean ground beef for best results.
- Rushing the gravy: A good gravy takes time to develop flavor. Allow it to simmer so that you get all those delicious browned bits incorporated.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Salisbury Steak
- Wrap individual patties tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating Salisbury Steak
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of broth, cover, and warm until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Salisbury steak that might help you out.
What is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak is a dish made from seasoned ground beef formed into patties, often served with gravy. It’s a comforting meal that many love.
How can I customize my Salisbury Steak?
You can customize your Salisbury steak by adding different herbs or spices, or even mixing in cheese for extra flavor.
Can I use different meats for Salisbury Steak?
Yes, while traditional recipes use ground beef, you can substitute turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner options.
What sides go well with Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or rice for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This delicious Salisbury steak recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or weeknight meals. Its rich mushroom gravy and tender patties will surely satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides for a personal touch!

Salisbury Steak
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Salisbury Steak is the epitome of comfort food, combining savory ground beef patties with a rich mushroom gravy that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a delightful meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. With its versatility in side pairings, Salisbury Steak promises to be a beloved addition to your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 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
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, bread crumbs, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, pepper, and salt until well combined. Form into four oval patties.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Brown the patties for 2–3 minutes on each side; transfer to a platter.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until softened.
- Stir in thyme, garlic powder, and flour; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add beef stock while scraping the pan for flavor. Bring to a boil and let thicken before adding butter and seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Return patties to the skillet and cook until no longer pink in the center.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty with gravy (180g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg