How to Make Juicy, Savory Salisbury Steak with Ground Beef (Step-by-Step)

Salisbury steak is a classic American dish of seasoned ground beef patties served with a rich brown gravy. It’s a budget-friendly meal that’s easy to make, comforting, and loaded with savory flavor. In this simple step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to make tender, juicy salisbury steak at home with ground beef

What is Salisbury Steak?

Salisbury steak is made from ground beef mixed with seasonings and breadcrumbs or eggs, shaped into oval-shaped patties, then pan-fried It’s served hot topped with a flavorful onion gravy The name comes from Dr. James H. Salisbury who recommended eating more beef for health in the 1800s.

While similar to hamburger patties, salisbury steak contains seasonings for extra flavor. The richness of the gravy also sets it apart. This filling dish has been popular for generations!

Tips for Making the Best Salisbury Steak

Follow these tips for incredibly moist, seasoned salisbury steak every time:

• Use 80% lean ground beef – Opt for 80-85% lean ground beef rather than a super lean option The higher fat content keeps the patties tender and juicy,

• Season generously – Flavor the beef mixture boldly with Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, garlic, onions, and spices.

• Add binders – Mix in breadcrumbs or eggs to help hold the patties together.

• Don’t overhandle – Gently mix the ingredients without over-mixing to prevent dense, tough patties.

• Make a flavorful gravy – Cook aromatics like onions and garlic to infuse the rich gravy.

• Don’t overcook – Fry the patties until lightly browned then finish cooking gently in the gravy.

Ingredients Needed

For the patties:

• 1 1⁄2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
• 1⁄3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1⁄2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1⁄4 tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying

For the gravy:

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for salisbury steak with gravy:

1. Make the Beef Patties

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly.

• Shape into 4-6 oval patties, about 3⁄4-inch thick. Place on a plate.

2. Sear the Patties

• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until lightly browned.

• Transfer seared patties to a plate. They’ll finish cooking in the gravy.

3. Make the Onion Gravy

• In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.

• Add sliced onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.

• Sprinkle flour over onions and cook for 1 minute more.

• Gradually whisk in beef broth. Simmer until thickened.

• Stir in Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper.

4. Simmer the Patties in the Gravy

• Return patties to the gravy along with any juices on the plate.

• Spoon gravy over patties.

• Simmer for 10-15 minutes until patties are cooked through.

• Taste gravy and season additionally if needed.

5. Serve Salisbury Steak

• Serve salisbury steak topped with plenty of rich onion gravy! Delicious with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

• Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips

• Use a cast iron skillet for the best browning.

• Cook patties over slightly lower heat if they brown too quickly.

• For thicker gravy, increase the flour by 1 tbsp.

• Stir in a splash of cream or milk for extra richness.

• Slice cooked patties and serve over bread as open-faced sandwiches.

How to Store and Reheat

To store uncooked patties:

• Place patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for 1-2 days.

To store cooked salisbury steak:

• Let cool completely before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

To freeze:

• Freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

To reheat:

• Place patties and gravy in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

• Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes until hot.

Reheating gently prevents the patties from drying out. Enjoy leftover salisbury steak within 4 days for the best quality.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey?

Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey for the ground beef. The cooking method remains the same.

Can I broil or grill the patties?

Absolutely! Broil for 6-8 minutes per side or grill over direct heat for a smoky flavor.

Can I use onion soup mix?

Onion soup mix can be used instead of onion powder and salt in the patties for convenience. Use about 2 tbsp of dry mix.

Should I make the gravy thicker?

For a thicker gravy, increase the flour by 1-2 tbsp or simmer the gravy uncovered until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I serve salisbury steak without gravy?

You can pan-fry seasoned patties and serve them without gravy for a lighter meal. The gravy provides moisture and flavor.

Enjoy Delicious Salisbury Steak at Home

Salisbury steak is the ultimate budget-friendly comfort food. With flavorful seasoned beef patties and hearty onion gravy, it makes a filling and satisfying dinner the whole family will love. Follow this easy recipe using ground beef to make tender, juicy patties and rich gravy from scratch. Enjoy this classic meal any night of the week!