How to Make Salisbury Steak with Ground Beef

Salisbury steak is one of those classic comfort foods that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Often mistaken for hamburger patties with gravy, Salisbury steak is a more refined and flavorful dish that has earned its place in American culinary tradition.

Originating in the late 19th century, the dish is named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, an early advocate of a meat-centered diet. His belief in the health benefits of ground beef helped popularize the idea of shaping seasoned beef into patties and serving them with a rich brown gravy. Over the decades, Salisbury steak has evolved into a staple of diners, home kitchens, and even frozen food aisles—but nothing beats making it from scratch at home.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make a delicious and satisfying Salisbury steak using ground beef, complete with a savory onion-and-mushroom gravy that complements the meat perfectly. Let’s dive in and bring this timeless recipe to your dinner table.

Ingredients Needed

Creating Salisbury steak from ground beef requires everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s everything you’ll need for both the patties and the gravy:

A. For the Steak Patties

• 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended) – Enough fat for flavor and moisture without being greasy.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meat and adds texture.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce – Adds deep umami richness.
• 1 small onion, grated or finely chopped – Blends into the meat for moisture and flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Provides a bold aromatic punch.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional) – Adds subtle tang and complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste

B. For the Gravy

• 2 tablespoons butter or oil – For sautéing and starting the roux.
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced – Sweet and savory base for the gravy.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional) – Add earthiness and body.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the gravy.
• 2 cups beef broth – The main liquid and flavor base.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the gravy’s depth.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup or tomato paste – Balances the savory notes with a hint of sweetness.
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment

To ensure everything goes smoothly, gather the following tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk
• Plate or tray for resting patties

Preparing the Ground Beef Patties

Before you cook, the most important step is building flavorful patties. Follow these steps for patties that stay juicy and hold their shape:

1. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, grated onion, garlic, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Mix Gently:
   Use your hands or a fork to combine all ingredients. Don’t overmix—it can result in tough patties.
3. Shape the Patties:
   Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 oval-shaped patties about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Flatten them slightly, but not too much—they’ll cook more evenly this way.
4. Chill if Desired:
   For firmer patties, place them in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes. This helps prevent them from falling apart when cooking.

Searing the Patties

Searing locks in flavor and adds a golden-brown crust. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Heat the Pan:
   Add 1–2 tablespoons of oil or butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Let it heat up until shimmering.
2. Sear the Patties:
   Place the patties in the hot skillet and sear each side for 3–4 minutes until browned. You don’t need to cook them through at this point—just develop that flavorful crust.
3. Set Aside:
   Transfer the browned patties to a plate while you make the gravy.

Making the Gravy

This onion and mushroom gravy is rich, savory, and the perfect pairing for Salisbury steak.

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add a bit more butter or oil if needed. Sauté the sliced onions and mushrooms over medium heat until soft and golden—about 5–7 minutes.
2. Create a Roux:
   Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes. This helps thicken the gravy and removes the raw flour taste.
3. Add the Liquid:
   Slowly whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer:
   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It should thicken slightly within 3–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmering the Patties in Gravy

Now that your gravy is ready, it’s time to finish cooking the patties.

1. Return the Patties to the Pan:
   Nestle the seared patties into the gravy, spooning some sauce over the top.
2. Cover and Simmer:
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let everything simmer for 15–20 minutes. Flip the patties halfway through to ensure even cooking.
3. Check for Doneness:
   The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). The patties should be fully cooked, juicy, and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Salisbury steak is a hearty dish that pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some classic pairings:

• Mashed Potatoes: The go-to choice, perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
• Egg Noodles: A soft and buttery base that works wonderfully with the savory sauce.
• Rice: Simple and fluffy, ideal for weeknight meals.
• Vegetables: Green beans, peas, or roasted carrots add freshness and color to your plate.
• Dinner Rolls or Biscuits: Use them to mop up every drop of gravy.

Tips for Best Results

Cooking Salisbury steak is simple, but these tips will help you perfect it:

• Use 80/20 Ground Beef: A little fat is essential for flavor and tenderness. Leaner blends may result in dry patties.
• Grate Your Onion: Grated onion blends better into the patties than diced, keeping them moist and flavorful.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing adds a deep flavor that simmering alone can’t provide.
• Let It Simmer Slowly: Low and slow cooking ensures the patties stay juicy and soak up the gravy flavors.
• Taste and Adjust the Gravy: Add more Worcestershire for savoriness or ketchup for a touch of sweetness, depending on your preference.

Variations

Want to shake things up? Try these fun and delicious variations on the classic Salisbury steak:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: A lighter version with the same savory taste.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. Make sure your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free.
• Add Mushrooms to Patties: Finely chop and mix them into the ground beef for added moisture and umami flavor.
• Cheesy Patties: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella inside the patties for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the patties or gravy for a bit of heat.

Storage and Reheating

Salisbury steak makes fantastic leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerator:

• Let the dish cool to room temperature.
• Store in an airtight container with the gravy.
• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer:

• Wrap each patty in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag or container with gravy.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Reheat in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions in 60-second intervals, stirring between rounds.

Conclusion

Salisbury steak with ground beef is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers on comfort, taste, and satisfaction. With a handful of pantry ingredients and a little time, you can create a homemade version that’s far superior to any frozen meal or diner plate. From the juicy, well-seasoned patties to the rich, velvety gravy, every bite is a tribute to classic American home cooking.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner, Salisbury steak is sure to please. Try it with mashed potatoes and a side of greens, or put your spin on the dish with creative variations.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and bring this timeless favorite back to your table one hearty bite at a time.