Looking for a hearty, home-cooked meal that delivers big on flavor and comfort? This Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy is a timeless classic that brings together tender beef patties and a rich, savory mushroom sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate — nostalgic, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.
This recipe uses everyday ingredients, comes together in under an hour, and makes the perfect dinner when you want something cozy, filling, and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a make-ahead meal, this Salisbury steak will become a go-to favorite.
What Is Salisbury Steak?
Despite its name, Salisbury steak isn’t actually steak. It’s a flavorful, seasoned ground beef patty shaped like a steak and served smothered in a rich brown gravy, often with mushrooms and onions. It has its roots in American cuisine and was originally developed in the 19th century as a protein-rich alternative to traditional meat cuts.
Think of it as the elevated cousin of a hamburger patty — more refined, richly flavored, and designed to be enjoyed with a fork and knife alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- Big, bold flavors thanks to Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a deeply savory mushroom gravy
- Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights
- Comfort food favorite that’s great for family dinners or meal prep
Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to bring this classic dish to life.
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Salisbury Steaks
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, grated onion, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined — avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into oval patties, about ¾-inch thick.
2. Sear the Patties
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes on each side until browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet — they’ll finish cooking in the gravy. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Mushroom Gravy
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until they begin to brown and release their moisture.
Add the chopped onion and cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the vegetables. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.
4. Return Patties to the Pan
Carefully return the seared patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and simmer on low for 10–15 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the gravy has thickened.
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Salisbury steak pairs beautifully with classic comfort food sides like:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- Steamed green beans or peas
- Roasted carrots or seasonal vegetables
- A simple green salad for balance
Storage and Reheating
This dish stores well and is great for leftovers.
To store: Let cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy thickens too much in the fridge.
To freeze: Freeze cooked patties and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Tips
- Grate the onion instead of dicing it — this adds moisture and flavor without big onion chunks.
- Don’t skip the sear. Browning the patties adds a layer of flavor that takes the whole dish up a notch.
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best texture and flavor — cremini, button, or even a mix of wild mushrooms work well.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Salisbury steak has stood the test of time. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home — deeply satisfying, packed with flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. With a rich mushroom gravy and tender, juicy patties, this recipe brings a beloved classic into the modern kitchen with ease.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or even a make-ahead meal for busy days, Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy will quickly become a staple on your menu.