When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like Salisbury steak. This old-school dish is hearty, flavorful, and smothered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood TV dinners or just craving a filling, homemade meal, this recipe will bring that classic diner flavor right to your kitchen.
But let’s be real—not all Salisbury steaks are created equal. Some are too dry, some lack flavor, and others have a gravy that’s too thin. This version? It’s juicy, packed with flavor, and has a thick, velvety gravy that’s absolutely irresistible.
In this post, we’ll cover:
✅ A little history of Salisbury steak
✅ Why this recipe works so well
✅ Step-by-step instructions with pro tips
✅ Variations and serving ideas
Let’s get started!
The History of Salisbury Steak
Believe it or not, Salisbury steak has been around since the 1800s. It was invented by Dr. James Henry Salisbury, a physician who believed that a diet rich in minced beef would promote good health. During the American Civil War, he recommended that soldiers eat ground beef mixed with seasonings for strength and stamina.
Over time, this dish evolved into the Salisbury steak we know today—a ground beef patty seasoned to perfection, cooked to a golden brown, and topped with a rich gravy. It gained popularity in the 1950s and 60s, especially with the rise of frozen TV dinners.
Today, we’re bringing this dish back to its homemade glory with fresh ingredients and BIG flavor.
Why This Recipe is the Best
Here’s why this version of Salisbury steak stands out:
🔥 Juicy and Flavorful – The patties have a perfect balance of seasonings, breadcrumbs, and egg to keep them moist.
🔥 Thick and Savory Gravy – No watery gravy here! This one is rich, thick, and packed with onions, mushrooms, and beef broth.
🔥 Easy to Make – Simple steps, easy ingredients, and only 30 minutes of cooking time.
🔥 Great for Meal Prep – Make extra and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
The Ultimate Salisbury Steak Recipe
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water (to thicken)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✅ Ground beef
✅ Breadcrumbs
✅ Egg
✅ Ketchup
✅ Worcestershire sauce
✅ Dijon mustard
✅ Garlic powder
✅ Onion powder
✅ Salt & black pepper
Mix gently with your hands until just combined. (Over-mixing makes the patties tough!) Shape into 4-5 oval patties, about ¾-inch thick.
Step 2: Sear the Patties
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned.
- Remove from the pan and set aside. (They don’t need to be fully cooked yet.)
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter.
- Add sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in mushrooms and cook another 4-5 minutes until browned.
- Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Stir it into the gravy to thicken.
Step 4: Simmer the Steaks
- Return the patties to the skillet and spoon some gravy over them.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Check for doneness (internal temp should be 160°F).
Serving Suggestions
Salisbury steak is best with a side that soaks up the gravy! Try it with:
🍽 Mashed potatoes – The classic choice! Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes pair perfectly.
🍽 Buttered egg noodles – A simple, comforting side.
🍽 Steamed veggies – Green beans, carrots, or peas add freshness.
🍽 Garlic bread – Because why not?
Pro Tips for the Best Salisbury Steak
✅ Use 80/20 beef – Leaner beef can make the patties dry.
✅ Don’t overmix – Gently mix the patty ingredients to keep them tender.
✅ Sear before simmering – This locks in the juices and adds a delicious crust.
✅ Let it rest – Give the patties a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors after cooking.
Recipe Variations
🔥 No Mushrooms? – Swap them out for extra onions or bell peppers.
🔥 Low-Carb Version – Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
🔥 Extra Rich Gravy – Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy twist.
🔥 Make it a Meatloaf! – Shape the mixture into a loaf and bake at 375°F for 40-45 minutes, then smother in the gravy.
Storage & Meal Prep
🛑 Fridge – Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
🛑 Freezer – Freeze cooked patties and gravy in separate containers for up to 3 months.
🛑 Reheating – Heat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Final Thoughts
This homemade Salisbury steak is pure comfort food heaven—juicy, flavorful patties with the most amazing mushroom gravy. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner, Sunday meal prep, or just a trip down memory lane, you’ll love how easy and delicious this recipe is.
Give it a try, and let me know in the comments: What’s your favorite way to enjoy Salisbury steak? 🍽🔥