If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dinner that hits all the right notes, this Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together juicy, flavorful beef patties smothered in an irresistibly smooth mushroom gravy that’s both savory and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking to impress guests, this dish is a timeless classic that never disappoints. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and leaves everyone asking for seconds, guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that work together beautifully. Each element plays a special role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color—no complicated items or hard-to-find spices, just good, honest food.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20): Provides the perfect ratio for juicy, flavorful patties.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties and adds a tender texture.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the meat moist and tender, soaking into the breadcrumbs.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder, holding everything together.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and texture inside the patties.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the beef with a hint of aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers delicious umami depth to the meat mixture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of kick.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying): Perfect for getting a golden-brown sear on the patties.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Richens the gravy and adds a silky texture.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the mushroom gravy to a luscious consistency.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates the flavorful base of the gravy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the savory flavor in the mushroom gravy.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth to the gravy without overpowering it.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the gravy’s complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential final seasoning for the gravy to make it just right.
How to Make Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Mix the Meat Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. It’s important to mix these ingredients until they are just combined to keep the patties tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into 4 to 6 oval-shaped patties. This shape is classic and perfect for cooking evenly while maintaining a homey look.
Step 3: Brown the Patties
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the patties carefully in the hot pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful, browned crust and are cooked through. Then, remove them from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 4: Make the Mushroom Gravy Roux
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute. This step makes a roux, which will thicken your savory gravy without lumps – a crucial step in the Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe.
Step 5: Add Broth and Flavorings
Slowly whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring as the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes, until it reaches a smooth, rich gravy consistency full of comforting mushroom flavor.
Step 6: Simmer Patties in Gravy
Return the browned patties to the skillet, nestling them gently into the gravy. Lower the heat and let everything simmer together for 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the patties to soak in the luscious gravy and become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the Salisbury steaks with plenty of that rich mushroom gravy spooned generously over the top. This is the heart and soul of the Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe, bringing every bite to life.
How to Serve Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of green and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the richness of the gravy perfectly. It also makes the dish look bright and inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery egg noodles to soak up every bit of that gravy. Steamed green beans or crisp roasted carrots bring a pleasant crunch and vibrant color to the plate, balancing the hearty main feature.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, serve the Salisbury steak over garlic mashed cauliflower or even polenta for a different texture. You can also turn it into a loaded sandwich by placing the patties and gravy on crusty bread with sautéed mushrooms and melted cheese—perfect for a cozy night in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Salisbury steak and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe either before cooking or after. Place patties and gravy separately or together in freezer-safe containers or bags to preserve freshness. Frozen, they last up to 2 months.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a lid to keep moisture in. Stir occasionally to prevent the gravy from sticking and ensure every bite stays juicy and flavorful as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for Salisbury steak?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used for a lighter version. Keep in mind that leaner meats may need a bit more moisture like extra milk or a beaten egg to maintain tenderness.
Is it necessary to make the gravy in the same skillet?
Using the same skillet is recommended because it captures all the browned bits from cooking the patties, adding wonderful depth to the gravy. But if your pan is small, a separate saucepan works fine too.
Can I add mushrooms directly to the gravy?
Yes! Adding sautéed mushrooms elevates the gravy’s flavor and texture wonderfully. Simply cook sliced mushrooms in butter before making the roux and then combine everything for an extra rich mushroom gravy.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Be careful not to overmix the meat when combining ingredients. Overworking can make the patties tough and crumbly. Also, the breadcrumbs and egg act as key binders, so don’t skip them.
What are some good alternatives to Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can provide some of the umami flavor. Just add sparingly so it doesn’t overpower the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about this Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe that just feels like home. With its juicy, flavorful patties and luxuriously smooth gravy, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. So gather your ingredients, warm up your skillet, and treat yourself to this timeless classic that never goes out of style!
Print
Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Salisbury steak recipe features tender ground beef patties smothered in a rich and savory mushroom-free brown gravy. Perfectly browned and simmered to perfection, this hearty comfort food is easy to prepare in just 30 minutes and serves 4. Enjoy it alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steak Patties
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
For the Gravy
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender.
- Shape Patties: Form the mixture into 4-6 oval-shaped patties, ensuring even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Brown Patties: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to form a roux that will thicken the gravy.
- Prepare Gravy: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking and cooking for 3-5 minutes until the gravy has thickened.
- Simmer Patties in Gravy: Return the cooked patties to the skillet, spoon the gravy over them, then reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes so the patties absorb the flavors and become extra tender.
- Serve: Serve the Salisbury steaks hot with the rich gravy drizzled on top. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for a classic comfort meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Do not overmix the ground beef mixture to keep patties tender.
- Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal juiciness and flavor.
- You can add mushrooms to the gravy if desired, although the original recipe does not include them.
- Adjust seasoning of the gravy according to taste before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
