Last Tuesday, I opened my freezer and stared at the same problem many busy families face: another pound of ground beef and 30 minutes to make dinner. That’s when I remembered my grandmother’s go-to comfort meal that always saved the day.
Salisbury steak isn’t actually steak at all. It’s seasoned ground beef shaped into patties and smothered in rich mushroom gravy. This classic dish transforms ordinary ingredients into something special your whole family will love.
What Makes This Salisbury Steak Recipe Special
This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll use one pan, basic pantry ingredients, and simple techniques that anyone can master.
The secret lies in browning the patties first, then using those flavorful drippings to build the gravy. This creates layers of taste that make each bite incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Patties:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 teaspoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef stock
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 6 ounces sliced mushrooms
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Patties. Mix all patty ingredients except oil in a large bowl. Shape into 4 oval patties about 3/4-inch thick. The oval shape makes them look more like traditional steaks.
- Brown the Patties. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through yet. Transfer to a plate.
- Create the Gravy. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet with the drippings. Once melted, whisk in flour until smooth with no lumps.
- Add Liquid. Slowly pour in beef stock while whisking constantly. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Whisk until combined.
- Add Mushrooms. Stir in sliced mushrooms. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens nicely. Season with salt and pepper.
- Finish Cooking. Return the browned patties to the skillet. Nestle them into the gravy, cover, and cook 10 more minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They create a lighter texture that holds together better.
- Don’t skip the browning step. Those caramelized bits add incredible flavor to your gravy.
- Let the gravy simmer properly. This develops the right consistency and allows flavors to meld together.
Smart Variations to Try
- Turkey Option. Substitute ground turkey for beef and use chicken stock instead of beef stock.
- Extra Flavor. Sauté diced onions with the mushrooms for added depth.
- Meal Prep. Shape patties ahead and freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Cooked Salisbury Steak. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Freezing. Cool completely, then freeze in the gravy for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What to Serve Alongside
Mashed potatoes are the classic choice. The creamy texture perfectly complements the rich gravy.
Other great options include:
- Steamed rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Buttered noodles
- Dinner rolls
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
The combination of breadcrumbs and egg creates patties that hold their shape without falling apart. The flour-thickened gravy provides the perfect consistency for spooning over your favorite sides.
This isn’t fancy restaurant food. It’s honest, satisfying comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table.
Nutrition Information
Each serving contains approximately 317 calories, 30g protein, and 17g fat. The high protein content makes this a filling meal that keeps you satisfied.
The Bottom Line
This salisbury steak recipe proves that great comfort food doesn’t require complicated techniques or expensive ingredients. With just 30 minutes and one pan, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight.
The next time you’re staring at ground beef wondering what to make, remember this recipe. It’s the kind of reliable, delicious meal that becomes a family favorite for good reason.
Easy Salisbury Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix all patty ingredients except oil in a large bowl. Shape into 4 oval patties about 3/4-inch thick. The oval shape makes them look more like traditional steaks.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through yet. Transfer to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet with the drippings. Once melted, whisk in flour until smooth with no lumps.
- Slowly pour in beef stock while whisking constantly. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Whisk until combined.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens nicely. Season with salt and pepper.
- Return the browned patties to the skillet. Nestle them into the gravy, cover, and cook 10 more minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.