Homemade Salisbury Steak

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Rich, comforting, and full of flavor — this Homemade Salisbury Steak is the kind of hearty meal that wraps you up like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. With juicy, tender beef patties smothered in a savory mushroom and onion gravy, it’s a classic dinner that never goes out of style. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or looking for something nostalgic and satisfying, this dish delivers every single time.

Served over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes, every bite is a combination of melt-in-your-mouth beef and that rich, velvety gravy soaked into the spuds below. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table — and has them asking for seconds. No fancy ingredients, just honest-to-goodness comfort food done right.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Salisbury Steak

This dish isn’t just about flavor (though it nails that too) — it’s about simplicity, versatility, and comfort. You’ll love how easy it is to bring together with pantry staples, how adaptable it is to your personal taste, and how crowd-pleasing it is for all ages. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal when paired with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, making cleanup a breeze.

The juicy steak patties are seasoned perfectly, the gravy is luxuriously rich without being heavy, and the mushrooms add an earthy depth that takes everything to the next level.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the best Salisbury steak, use ground beef that has enough fat to stay juicy during cooking. An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal because it offers rich flavor without being overly greasy. If you use extra lean beef, the patties may turn out dry, so be sure to compensate with a splash of milk or an egg yolk to keep things moist.

You can also substitute half of the beef with ground turkey or pork if you’re looking for a twist on the classic or want to lighten it up a bit. Just be sure to season well and adjust the cook time slightly as needed.

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Ingredients for the Homemade Salisbury Steak

Each ingredient in this dish plays a vital role in building the comforting, savory depth of flavor that makes Salisbury steak so satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:

• Ground Beef (80/20): The foundation of the steak patties, offering a balance of tenderness and flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties and gives them structure while keeping them tender.
• Egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold the meat mixture together.
• Onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and moisture to the patties.
• Garlic: Enhances the savory, meaty flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Delivers that signature umami punch that defines Salisbury steak.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the patties just right.
• Olive Oil: For browning the patties to a crisp, flavorful crust.

For the Gravy:

• Butter: Creates the base for a rich roux.
• Mushrooms (sliced): Bring earthiness and depth to the gravy.
• Onion (sliced): Adds sweetness and body to the sauce.
• Flour: Thickens the gravy into that luscious texture.
• Beef Broth: The liquid gold that brings the gravy together.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds richness and deepens the flavor profile.
• Fresh Thyme (optional): A touch of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.

How To Make the Homemade Salisbury Steak

Step 1: Mix the Steak Patties

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — don’t overwork it, or the patties could become tough.

Step 2: Shape and Sear

Form the mixture into oval-shaped patties. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and brown the patties on both sides. Remove and set aside (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet).

Step 3: Build the Gravy Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the sliced onions and mushrooms until softened and browned. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute to eliminate the raw taste.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Gradually add the beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and fresh thyme. Bring to a simmer until thickened and smooth.

Step 5: Simmer Everything Together

Return the patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked and infused with flavor.

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Serving and Storing This Homemade Salisbury Steak

This recipe makes about 4 hearty servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week. Serve the Salisbury steak hot over a pile of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even rice for a comforting and satisfying dish.

To store, let the steak and gravy cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen up the gravy.

What to Serve With Homemade Salisbury Steak?

Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate pairing. Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the perfect base to soak up all that rich mushroom gravy.

Roasted Green Beans

Crisp-tender and lightly charred, green beans add color and a fresh bite to your plate.

Buttered Egg Noodles

Tossed with a bit of butter and herbs, these are an easy and classic side that balances the dish beautifully.

Steamed Broccoli

Bright, nutrient-packed, and simple. Broccoli adds a bit of green and crunch to the meal.

Dinner Rolls

Fluffy rolls are perfect for scooping up leftover gravy on your plate.

Glazed Carrots

Slightly sweet, tender carrots are a family-friendly veggie side that complements the savory steak.

Cauliflower Mash

For a lower-carb option, creamy cauliflower mash makes a great substitute for mashed potatoes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Salisbury steak ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the patties and even the gravy in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, cook the patties and warm the gravy, then combine and simmer to finish.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely. While ground beef is traditional, ground turkey, pork, or a mix of both can work well. Just make sure to adjust your seasoning, as leaner meats may need extra fat or moisture.

Why did my patties fall apart?
The most common cause is not enough binder. Make sure you’re using enough breadcrumbs and egg. Also, don’t overmix the meat — that can break down its structure.

Can I skip the mushrooms?
Of course. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, simply leave them out or swap them for another veggie like finely diced carrots or bell peppers.

How do I know when the patties are done?
Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you tweak the seasonings or add a special side? I’d love to hear what variations you tried!

Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier. And if you’re looking for more comforting, home-style dishes like this, check out my daily recipes on Life With Livia’s Pinterest.

Conclusion

Homemade Salisbury Steak is more than just a throwback recipe — it’s a celebration of comfort, simplicity, and bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or as a cozy weekend meal, it always hits the spot.

From the juicy patties to the rich gravy, this dish reminds us why the classics never go out of style.

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