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🥩 Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy
Don’t Lose This Classic Comfort Food Recipe!
Tender, juicy beef patties simmered in a rich onion gravy—this old-fashioned Salisbury steak is pure comfort food. It’s easy enough for weeknights and hearty enough to satisfy the whole family. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a meal that always hits the spot.
🛒 Ingredients
Salisbury Steaks
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500 g (about 1 lb) ground beef
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
Onion Gravy
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2 tablespoons butter or oil
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1 large onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups beef broth
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
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Make the Patties
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—do not overmix. -
Shape the Steaks
Divide the mixture into 4–6 oval-shaped patties. -
Brown the Patties
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil if needed. Brown patties for 3–4 minutes per side until nicely seared. Remove and set aside (they will finish cooking later). -
Cook the Onions
In the same skillet, melt butter (or add oil). Add sliced onions and cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized. -
Make the Gravy
Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in Worcestershire sauce. -
Simmer Everything Together
Return patties to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until patties are cooked through and gravy thickens. -
Season & Serve
Taste gravy and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Buttered egg noodles
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Steamed rice
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Green beans, peas, or corn
⭐ 20 Helpful Tips
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Don’t overmix the beef or the patties will be dense.
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Use lean ground beef (80/20 works best).
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Breadcrumbs keep the patties moist—don’t skip them.
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Let patties rest while making the gravy to keep juices in.
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Slice onions thin for the best texture.
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Caramelize onions longer for deeper flavor.
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Add a splash of milk for creamier gravy.
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Beef broth can be swapped for mushroom broth.
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Use low-sodium broth to control salt.
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Simmer gently—boiling can toughen the patties.
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Make it ahead; flavors improve overnight.
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Double the gravy if serving over potatoes or rice.
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Add mushrooms for a classic diner-style twist.
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Use a lid to keep patties juicy while simmering.
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Oval patties cook more evenly than round ones.
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Deglaze the pan well for maximum flavor.
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A cast-iron skillet gives great browning.
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Add thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
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Serve immediately for best texture.
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Leftovers reheat beautifully.
❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well. -
Can I freeze Salisbury steak?
Yes, freeze with gravy for up to 3 months. -
What ground meat works best?
Ground beef is classic, but turkey also works. -
Can I bake instead of skillet cook?
Yes, brown first, then bake at 350°F. -
How do I thicken the gravy more?
Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry. -
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. -
Is this the same as hamburger steak?
Very similar, but Salisbury steak has gravy. -
Can I add mushrooms?
Absolutely—add with the onions. -
Why are my patties falling apart?
Make sure to use egg and breadcrumbs. -
Can I use store-bought gravy?
Yes, but homemade tastes better. -
What sides go best with this?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. -
Can I use chicken broth?
Yes, but flavor will be lighter. -
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Up to 4 days. -
Can I use panko instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes, they work great. -
Why oval-shaped patties?
Traditional shape and cooks evenly. -
Can I add cheese to the patties?
Yes, shredded cheddar is delicious. -
What if my gravy is too salty?
Add a splash of water or milk. -
Do I need Worcestershire sauce?
It adds classic flavor but is optional. -
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes—brown first, then cook on LOW 4–5 hours. -
Is this kid-friendly?
Very—mild, comforting, and filling.














