Salisbury Steak Recipe: Hearty Comfort Food at Its Best

 Salisbury Steak is the epitome of comfort food—a savory, satisfying dish that warms both the stomach and the soul. Born in the mid-19th century, this classic dish is named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, an American doctor who promoted a diet mainly consisting of chopped beef for health reasons. Over the years, the recipe evolved from its medicinal roots into the richly flavorful meal we know and love today. Perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers, Salisbury Steak is a hearty meal that feels like a big hug on a plate.

Below, we’ll guide you through a simple recipe to create this nostalgic favorite at home. The tender, seasoned beef patties smothered in a luscious mushroom gravy are sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Ingredients

For the Salisbury Steaks

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Mushroom Gravy

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 8 ounces (225g) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth, low sodium
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties

1. Combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Use clean hands or a spatula to gently mix until everything is just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as it can make the patties tough.
2. Shape the mixture into 4 oval-shaped patties (about 1/2 inch thick). Set them on a plate and chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the gravy. Chilling helps them hold their shape while cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the patties to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. You don’t have to cook them all the way through just yet—they’ll finish cooking in the gravy later.
2. Remove the patties from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Gravy

1. To the same skillet, add the butter and olive oil. Once melted, toss in the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. While the gravy heats up, whisk the flour and water together in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering gravy while stirring. This will thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for 2-3 more minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Steak and Gravy

1. Return the seared patties to the skillet with the gravy. Spoon a bit of the gravy over each patty to keep them moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the patties to simmer gently for about 10-12 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Salisbury Steaks smothered in that rich mushroom gravy. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Salisbury Steak pairs beautifully with a variety of classic sides. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture is perfect for soaking up the gravy.
• Buttered Egg Noodles: For a hearty and satisfying option.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add color and balance to the plate.
• Dinner Rolls: Use them to mop up every last bit of gravy!

Tips for Success

• Use ground beef with a little fat for juicy, flavorful patties.
• Don’t skip the slurry—this step is key to achieving a thick, silky gravy.
• Add a splash of cream to the gravy if you want an extra-rich finish.
• For a time-saving shortcut, use pre-sliced mushrooms or canned beef broth.

There you have it—a timeless dish with modern simplicity. Salisbury Steak is a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of nostalgia to the table. Whether it reminds you of childhood dinners or introduces you to a new comfort food classic, this dish is sure to win over hearts and appetites alike!