If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, this Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with rich flavors and tender beef patties smothered in a deeply satisfying gravy, this dish brings classic American home cooking right to your table. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, and it’s surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients that come together beautifully in just under an hour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s adding juiciness, flavor, or the perfect texture that makes every bite memorable.
- Ground beef (1 pound): This is the star of the show—opt for fresh and preferably 80/20 for best juiciness and flavor.
- Bread crumbs (1/3 cup): These help hold the patties together without making them dense.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Adds moisture so the patties stay tender and soft.
- Finely chopped onion (1/4 cup): Brings sweetness and a bit of texture to the beef mixture.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to keep everything together.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Infuses the meat with those irresistible aromatic notes.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a savory umami punch both in the patties and the gravy.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For frying the patties to a lovely golden-brown crust.
- Beef broth (2 cups): The base of the gravy, rich and flavorful.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) and water (1 tablespoon): Mixed together to thicken the gravy perfectly without lumps.
- Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle sweetness and tang to the gravy.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon) and garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): For extra layers of flavor in the gravy.
How to Make Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients for the Patties
Start by combining ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix just until everything is evenly incorporated — overmixing can make the patties tough, and we want them tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape Your Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval patty, which helps them cook evenly and gives that classic Salisbury Steak look.
Step 3: Brown the Patties
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties and brown them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. This searing step locks in flavor and creates a beautiful crust. Then, remove the patties and set them aside.
Step 4: Make the Savory Gravy
Using the same skillet (all those delicious browned bits will add flavor), combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly pour this into the simmering gravy, stirring constantly to keep the gravy lump-free as it thickens.
Step 6: Simmer the Patties in Gravy
Turn the heat to low, return the patties to the skillet, and spoon some gravy over each one. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the patties are cooked through and tender, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Salisbury Steaks are now ready to be proudly plated and topped with that rich, savory gravy. Pair with your favorite sides and dig in!
How to Serve Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a fresh, bright flavor that balances the rich gravy wonderfully. For an extra touch, a dollop of creamy horseradish sauce on the side can bring a nice kick.
Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes are a classic companion because they soak up the gravy deliciously. Roasted vegetables or green beans bring color and crunch, complementing the hearty texture of the steak. For something a little different, buttery egg noodles also work beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Salisbury Steak over creamy polenta or alongside garlic roasted mushrooms for a twist on tradition. You could also make sliders using smaller patties and serve them on soft buns with a generous spoonful of gravy, turning this homey favorite into a fun finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe leftovers should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and maintain their flavor and tenderness.
Freezing
You can freeze the fully cooked patties and gravy separately or together. Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty foil. Frozen Salisbury Steak can last up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Slowly reheat leftover Salisbury steak in a skillet over low heat, covered, to prevent drying out. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy becomes too thick. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative, but be mindful it might need additional moisture like a bit more milk or an extra egg to keep the patties tender.
What is the secret to preventing tough Salisbury steak patties?
The key is not to overmix the beef mixture and to avoid pressing the patties too firmly. Also, simmering them in gravy ensures they stay moist and flavorful.
Can I make the gravy gluten-free?
Yes! Replace regular bread crumbs with gluten-free options and substitute cornstarch for flour to thicken the gravy. Just ensure all ingredients like Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
The patties should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are safely cooked. Also, the juices will run clear, and the texture will be firm but juicy.
Is there a vegetarian version of Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe?
While traditional Salisbury steak is beef-based, vegetarian versions can be made using hearty lentil or mushroom patties with a rich vegetable gravy to mimic that classic savory experience.
Final Thoughts
You really cannot beat the comfort and soulful satisfaction of this Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe. It’s a timeless dish that brings a wonderful balance of flavors, easy preparation, and pure delight at the dinner table. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes one of your all-time favorite meals to make and share!
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Salisbury Steak with Savory Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Salisbury Steak and Gravy is a classic comfort food dish featuring seasoned ground beef patties cooked to a perfect brown and simmered in a rich, flavorful beef gravy. This hearty meal is ideal for family dinners and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steak
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/3 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Gravy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water (to mix with cornstarch)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
- Form Patties: Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into an oval patty, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Brown the Patties: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Gravy: Using the same skillet, add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering gravy while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook and stir until the gravy thickens.
- Simmer Patties in Gravy: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, return the beef patties to the skillet, and spoon some gravy over each one. Cover the skillet and let the patties cook through for about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the Salisbury steaks topped generously with the rich gravy. Serve alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the patties tender and juicy.
- Browning the patties first adds essential flavor through caramelization.
- Adjust seasoning in the gravy at the end to suit your taste.
- Leftover Salisbury steak and gravy freezes well for up to 3 months.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
