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Few dishes hit the spot like a plate of homemade Salisbury steak swimming in savory mushroom-onion gravy This recipe takes simple pantry staples and transforms them into a nostalgic meal that always feels like comfort on a plate Whether you are gathering around the table midweek or trying to impress family with a classic this version delivers juicy seasoned patties and a flavorful sauce that ties it all together
My family fell in love with Salisbury steak when I surprised them with it after a chilly hike I have watched everyone scrape the plate clean every time I make it
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 80 percent lean for the perfect blend of juiciness and flavor Look for fresh beef with a bright red color and just enough marbling
- Breadcrumbs: plain or panko help bind the patties and keep them tender Choose high quality breadcrumbs for best texture
- Whole milk: gives richness and moisture to the steaks
- Large egg: helps bring everything together for cohesive patties
- Worcestershire sauce: amps up the umami and brings a deep savory taste Check the label for real anchovy and tamarind
- Dijon mustard: brightens the flavor Look for smooth creamy Dijon for the right balance of tang
- Onion powder: distributes mild sweet onion flavor throughout
- Garlic powder: for mellow depth If possible choose the freshest powder for best taste
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: adjust to your liking for seasoning
- Olive oil: a gentle fry on the patties adds color and helps seal in moisture
- Butter: in the gravy adds flavor and richness Use real unsalted butter for the best sauce
- Onion: finely chopped cooks down for a sweet savory base
- Mushrooms: cremini or baby bella bring earthy depth and texture Use firm unblemished mushrooms for best results
- All purpose flour: thickens the gravy until it coats your spoon Choose unbleached flour for a clean taste
- Beef broth: make the gravy complex and hearty Opt for a quality low sodium broth to control the saltiness
- Worcestershire sauce: in the gravy supports the meaty savoriness again
- Salt and black pepper: season the gravy exactly right
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Patties:
- Begin by placing the ground beef breadcrumbs milk egg Worcestershire sauce Dijon mustard onion powder garlic powder salt and pepper into a large mixing bowl Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon just until the ingredients come together Overmixing can make the steaks tough so keep a light touch Once combined shape the mixture into four even oval patties making sure they stay close in thickness for even cooking
- Sear the Patties:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Once hot add the beef patties in a single layer Leave room between them to help with browning Let each side cook undisturbed for about four to five minutes The goal is a deep golden color and a good crust Remove the patties once golden and set them aside on a plate Keep them warm while you make the gravy
- Make the Mushroom Gravy:
- With the skillet still on medium heat melt the butter and add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms Stir often and cook until they become soft and golden which will take about six to seven minutes You want the vegetables to deepen in color before moving to the next step Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir thoroughly letting the flour cook for about a minute This prevents any raw taste Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking continually so the gravy turns smooth As it simmers scrape up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor Once everything is combined add the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper Let the gravy bubble gently until it thickens which should take four to five minutes
- Combine and Finish:
- Nestle the browned patties back into the skillet making sure each is coated with plenty of mushroom gravy Lower the heat and let everything simmer together for about five minutes This melds the flavors and ensures the patties are completely cooked through Serve right away over a bed of mashed potatoes rice or your favorite noodles while the sauce is hot and glossy
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Mushrooms are my favorite part of this dish They soak up all the savory sauce and provide a meaty bite of their own When I was a kid my grandmother let me stir the mushrooms into the skillet and I always felt like a real chef
Storage Tips
Salisbury steak holds up wonderfully as leftovers Store the patties and gravy together in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For longer storage freeze individual portions in microwave safe containers When ready to eat thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat for best flavor
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have cremini mushrooms white button mushrooms are a good swap For breadcrumbs either panko or regular works great but a handful of crushed crackers can also do in a pinch If you are dairy free try unsweetened almond milk in place of whole milk and use a dairy free butter for the gravy
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Serving Suggestions
Serve Salisbury steak over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food If you want something lighter spoon the patties and gravy onto fluffy white rice or wide egg noodles Roasted carrots or buttery peas make a classic side to round out the plate
Cultural and Historical Context
Salisbury steak comes from Dr James Salisbury who in the late nineteenth century recommended chopped beef for health The dish became an American diner staple especially in the mid twentieth century when it was popularized in home kitchens and TV dinners Today it is loved for its approachable flavors and hearty nostalgia
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of beef works best for this dish?
Use 80/20 ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness in the patties.
- → Can I substitute the mushrooms?
Yes, button mushrooms are a good alternative if cremini or baby bella are unavailable.
- → How do I thicken the gravy?
Simmer the sauce a bit longer or add a touch more flour for a thicker consistency.
- → Is this meal freezer friendly?
Absolutely. Freeze the fully cooked steaks and gravy for up to three months for quick reheating.
- → What sides pair well with Salisbury steak?
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered egg noodles to soak up the flavorful gravy.
- → Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, prep the patties and gravy separately in advance. Combine and reheat before serving for best results.