This Classic Salisbury Steak is a hearty dish featuring juicy beef patties smothered in a rich onion gravy. It’s comfort food at its best, perfect for a cozy dinner!
You can’t go wrong with this meal! I love serving it with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that delicious gravy. You’ll find it hard to resist seconds. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, though they may need additional seasoning.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties. You can swap traditional breadcrumbs for panko for extra crunch, or use crushed crackers if you’re in a pinch. Gluten-free options are also available if needed!
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds depth to the flavor. If you’re allergic or prefer not to use it, a mix of soy sauce and a little vinegar can work as a substitute.
Onion: Yellow onions caramelize beautifully, but you can also use sweet onions for a milder flavor. If onions are an issue, try sautéed mushrooms instead for a different take.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is key for that deep flavor in your gravy. Take your time with this step to avoid burning. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the skillet on medium heat and add your butter.
- Once melted, add the sliced onions and stir. Allow them to cook, stirring every few minutes.
- Keep cooking for about 8-10 minutes until they turn a rich golden brown. Patience is essential here!
Don’t rush—good flavor takes time to develop!
Classic Salisbury Steak with Savory Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steak:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1/3 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter (for frying)
For the Savory Onion Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or soy sauce for extra depth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus about 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but delicious enough to impress on a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, or the patties will be tough. Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 oval patties, about 1 inch thick.
2. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 160°F or 70°C). Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Onion Gravy:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt over medium heat. Add the sliced onions to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the onions are soft and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Create the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and garlic. Stir well to coat everything and cook for about 2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste. Gradually stir in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen up any tasty browned bits. Add the Worcestershire sauce and optional mustard or soy sauce if you like, and stir continuously until the gravy starts to thicken (this should take about 3-5 minutes).
5. Combine and Serve:
Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Return the cooked beef patties to the skillet, spooning the savory onion gravy over them. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the patties to heat through.
Serve your delicious Salisbury Steak hot with a generous helping of savory onion gravy over top. Pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your comforting meal!
FAQ for Classic Salisbury Steak with Savory Onion Gravy
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey has less fat, so you might want to add a little extra seasoning or moisture to keep the patties juicy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Salisbury steaks and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the gravy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and gravy ahead of time. Just cook them as instructed, let them cool, then store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the patties in the gravy over low heat.
What Can I Serve with Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up that delicious gravy. Steamed vegetables or a simple side salad also make great accompaniments!
