The Best Salisbury Steak

Name: The Best Salisbury Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 1 egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cups beef broth; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Creamy mashed potatoes; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Create a comforting classic with The Best Salisbury Steak recipe. Tender beef patties are smothered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy, served over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate home-cooked meal. Perfect for family dinners, this hearty dish is a nostalgic favorite that guarantees satisfaction with every bite.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2025-12-01T11:08:59.021Z

This Salisbury Steak recipe brings back memories of family gatherings and hearty meals.

The Origin of Salisbury Steak

Salisbury steak has a rich history tracing back to the late 19th century, credited to Dr. James H. Salisbury, an American physician. He advocated for a meat-centric diet as a remedy for various ailments. The dish was originally served as a health food, consisting of ground beef formed into patties. Over time, it evolved into the comforting, hearty meal we know today, complete with savory mushroom gravy. As the dish gained popularity, it became a staple in American homes, celebrated for its simplicity and flavor.

The classic Salisbury steak is not just about taste; it embodies the nostalgia of home-cooked meals that families gathered around. Its foundation in simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods makes it an accessible dish for cooks of all skill levels. Whether served during special occasions or as a weeknight dinner, Salisbury steak remains a beloved dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Perfect Pairing for Comfort Food

When you think of comfort food, the accompaniments play a crucial role. Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect partner for Salisbury steak, soaking up the rich flavors of the mushroom gravy. This combination creates a harmonious balance between the tender meat and the silky potatoes, making each bite a delightful experience. To elevate this dish even further, consider adding steamed vegetables or a fresh salad on the side for a burst of color and nutrition.

The gravy not only enhances the steak but also adds a luxurious texture to your meal. Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms or even add sautéed onions to the gravy, curating a flavor profile that suits your tastes. This dish’s adaptability makes it easy to customize according to what you have on hand, turning it into a recipe you’ll return to time and again.

Tips for Success

Ingredients

For the Beef Patties

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mushroom Gravy

2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp butter
2 cups beef broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Creamy mashed potatoes
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to gather all ingredients before cooking.

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Beef Patties

In a bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Form into 4 patties.

Cook the Patties

Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Mushroom Gravy

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the mushrooms until softened. Add beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, and bring to a simmer.

Combine and Serve

Return the patties to the skillet, cover with gravy, and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes and garnish with parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Salisbury steak!

Storing and Reheating

Salisbury steak makes excellent leftovers and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the quality of the dish, it’s best to store the patties and gravy separately if possible. This will help prevent the patties from becoming too soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you plan to freeze the Salisbury steak, it’s recommended to freeze the patties and gravy separately. This will prolong their freshness for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, allowing for a quicker and more even heating process. Enjoying a comforting meal from your freezer is like having a little taste of home ready to go.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Salisbury steak meal, consider pairing it with a side of roasted vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. Not only do they add nutritional value, but they also bring color and variety to your plate. A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak and gravy.

Another delightful option is to serve the steak on a bed of buttery egg noodles instead of mashed potatoes. This alternative offers a different texture while still being excellent for soaking up the gravy. Feel free to get creative with your sides and toppings, making this dish your own and appealing to the tastes of your family and guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter version of this dish.

→ How can I make the gravy thicker?

You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the gravy.