I LOVE this old fashioned Salisbury steak recipe for juicy, seasoned hamburger patties smothered in rich, onion gravy.

In terms of ground beef recipes, guys, you will have this on repeat! This is my easy, comforting, super-budget-friendly Salisbury steak – I’m excited to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons to love this old-fashioned Salisbury steak recipe:

• Delux savory taste: The seasoned ground beef patties paired with a luscious gravy is rich and seriously satisfying.
• Budget-friendly: Salisbury steak is made with simple and affordable ingredients.
• Easy to make: This recipe is straightforward and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Great for meal prep: Salisbury steak patties can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. 
• Kid-friendly: The familiar flavors and comforting textures of Salisbury steak make it a hit with kids and picky eaters.

Here’s What You Need

Here is what to roundup to make these easy Salisbury steaks:

Ingredients for the Hamburger Steak Patties:

• Ground beef: Using ground beef with a higher fat content like 85% lean ensures a juicy and flavorful Salisbury steak. Leaner meat may result in drier patties. You can alternatively use a half-and-half mixture of ground pork with the beef, or switch to ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Bread crumbs: Bread crumbs help bind the ingredients together and add texture to the Salisbury steak patties. You can use plain or panko breadcrumbs based on what you prefer.
• Egg: The egg acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the Salisbury steak patties together. It contributes to the texture and helps prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
• Ketchup: This adds sweetness and tanginess.
• Worcestershire sauce: This adds depth of flavor and a savory umami taste to the Salisbury steak patties. It complements the beef and enhances the overall richness of the dish. Use a little mustard or soy sauce in its place. 
• Onion powder and garlic powder: These powdered spices add flavor and evenly distribute throughout the meat mixture.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: These essential seasonings enhance the flavor of the Salisbury steak patties. 
• Oil: Oil is used for pan-frying the Salisbury steak patties. It helps create a crispy exterior while keeping the patties moist and juicy.

Ingredients for the Salisbury Steak Gravy

• Beef broth: Beef broth forms the base of the gravy. You can use homemade or store-bought.
• Onion: Sliced onions add sweetness and texture to the gravy. 
• Pepper and salt: You want your gravy to be well-seasoned.
• All-purpose flour: Flour is used as a thickening agent for the gravy.
• Unsalted butter: This adds richness and silkiness to the gravy. 
• Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds complexity and depth to the gravy.
• Soy sauce: Soy sauce can be added for additional depth of flavor in the gravy. It contributes a savory umami taste and richness to the dish.

Variations and substitutions

You can use my recipe as a foundation and add other flavors. Here are some ideas:

• Mushroom gravy: Instead of a traditional beef gravy, make a mushroom gravy by sautéing sliced mushrooms with onions until golden brown. Add cream at the end!
• Herb-infused patties: Add fresh or dried herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the Salisbury steak mixture. A dab of dijon mustard is also nice.
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute for traditional bread crumbs. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, are gluten-free too.
• Low-carb option: Omit the bread crumbs entirely or substitute them with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb Salisbury steak recipe. Serve the patties with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad instead of mashed potatoes.

 Grab these tools 

Here is the list of equipment to make this homemade Salisbury steak recipe:

• Skillet: A cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan work well.
• Spatula: You’ll need this to turn your steaks. 
• Mixing bowl: To make the mixture.
• Whisk: To whisk the flour into the gravy.

How to Make an Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak: An Easy Guide

Here’s how to make my moreish and easy Salisbury steak recipe:

Prep the Salisbury steak mixture

Mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Make sure to mix it through well.

Shape the mixture into 4-6 oval patties, about ¾ inch thick.

Cook the patties

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely browned. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point.

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes.

Sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.

Make the gravy

Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it thicken for a few minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Finish cooking the patties

Return the patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked through and the gravy has thickened to your liking. Rest for a few minutes before serving. 

Make Ahead and Storage

You can prepare Salisbury steak patties according to recipe instructions and then store them before cooking them. Pop them into an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

For cooked patties, cool them completely before storing them. Store leftover patties in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. Refrigerate leftover Salisbury steak patties for up to 3-4 days.

You can also keep these steaks in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or microwave.

Here’s how long ground beef lasts in the fridge.

How to Serve this Salisbury Steak Recipe

Serve Salisbury steak patties on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, drizzled with rich brown gravy, and garnished with chopped parsley. 

Here are some other ideas to get your juices flowing:

• Family-style platter: Arrange Salisbury steak patties on a large serving platter, surrounded by golden brown potato wedges or steak fries, with a bowl of tangy coleslaw on the side, perfect for sharing at family gatherings or casual dinners.
• Open-faced sandwiches: Serve Salisbury steak patties atop toasted slices of crusty bread or Texas toast, smothered in savory beef gravy, and topped with caramelized onions. Whoa!
• Salisbury steak sliders: Transform Salisbury steak patties into bite-sized sliders by sandwiching them between soft dinner rolls or mini brioche buns. Add a dollop of tangy mustard or a slice of melted cheese.
• Over egg noodles: This saucy dish is perfect to spoon over a bed of buttery egg noodles, for a take on beef stroganoff.

5 Common Mistakes When Making Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak

As simple as this recipe is, there’s always room for errors, right? Here’s what to avoid:

1. Using lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef may result in dry and bland Salisbury steak patties. 
2. Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the steak patties to rest before serving can lead to meat juices running out, resulting in dry and less succulent patties. 
3. Overcooking the patties: Overcooking the Salisbury steak patties can result in tough and dry meat. 
4. Not seasoning enough: Be generous with salt, pepper, and other seasonings, tasting as you go to adjust the seasoning to your preference.
5. Not allowing the gravy to thicken: This can result in a thin and watery sauce that lacks richness and depth of flavor.

FAQs About  Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak

Just skimming through? Here are the highlights:

What is Salisbury steak?

Salisbury steak is a classic dish made from seasoned ground beef formed into patties, typically served with a rich gravy.

How did Salisbury steak originate?

Salisbury steak is named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, an American physician who promoted a diet emphasizing lean beef as a healthful option in the late 19th century.

What is the difference between Salisbury steak and hamburger patties?

Salisbury steak patties are typically seasoned with spices and often include breadcrumbs or flour as a binder, while hamburger patties are usually just ground beef shaped into patties without additional seasonings or binders.

What is the best type of ground beef to use for Salisbury steak?

Ground beef with a higher fat content, such as 85% lean, is recommended for Salisbury steak as it helps keep the patties moist and flavorful.

Can Salisbury steak be made ahead of time?

Yes, Salisbury steak patties can be formed and refrigerated for several hours or overnight before cooking to allow flavors to develop.

Other Beef Recipes You’ll Love

Check these beef recipes for comfort food inspiration:

• Beef Pot Pie with golden flaky crust
• Meatloaf with Brown Gravy
• Chili Con Carne recipe with ground beef
• Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
• Authentic Mexican Ground Beef Taco Recipe
• The best Meatloaf recipe
• You’ll love this golden Roast Beef Crust on this beautiful roast
• Air Fryer Roast Beef
• Instant Pot Steak recipe with gravy