If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dinner that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor, this Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, seasoned beef patties simmered in a rich brown gravy make every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or when you simply want a classic meal that feels like a warm hug, this recipe is your go-to solution that’s both satisfying and surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward but essential ingredients is all it takes to build a deeply flavorful and satisfying Salisbury steak. Each element plays a special role—from adding savory depths to the patties, to creating that perfect, luscious gravy that ties everything together beautifully.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The star protein that forms tender, juicy patties.
- 1/3 cup bread crumbs: Helps bind the meat and keeps patties moist.
- 2 teaspoons ketchup: Adds a hint of sweetness and tang to the patties.
- 1 teaspoon mustard: Brings a subtle punch of flavor that complements the beef.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami richness in both patties and gravy.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle onion flavor for depth.
- 2 packets Brown Gravy Mix (about 1 oz each): The foundation for that comforting, smooth gravy.
- 2 cups hot water: To create the gravy’s perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon ketchup: Incorporated into the gravy for a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the gravy’s savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: Ideal for cooking patties with a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
How to Make Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Patties
Start by combining all the patty ingredients—ground beef, bread crumbs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder—in a large bowl. Use clean hands to mix everything evenly, ensuring the spices and sauces are well distributed. Once combined, divide the meat mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about ¾ inch thick. This step sets the groundwork for tender, flavorful steaks.
Step 2: Cook Patties
Heat a tablespoon of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the pan and cook them until they develop a beautiful brown crust on both sides, approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side. This searing locks in the juices and flavor. Adjust your stove’s heat if necessary to avoid burning. When cooked through, transfer the patties to a plate and set them aside while you prepare the gravy.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the two packets of brown gravy mix with hot water, along with ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. The gravy gets its rich, savory character from this blend, perfectly balancing tangy and umami flavors. Whisk until everything is completely dissolved and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour the prepared gravy mixture into the skillet you used to cook the patties, making sure to scrape in any browned bits left behind for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Return the cooked patties to the skillet, spooning gravy over each one, then let them simmer together for 3 to 5 minutes. This allows the patties to soak up the delicious gravy. If the sauce thickens too much, simply stir in an extra ¼ cup of hot water to loosen it up.
How to Serve Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Even a simple garnish can elevate this classic dish. Sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley or chives over the Salisbury steaks before serving. This adds a bright burst of color and fresh flavor, balancing the rich, hearty gravy perfectly.
Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes are the traditional soulmate to your Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe, soaking up all that luscious gravy. You can also serve it alongside steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or buttered peas for a well-rounded, comforting plate that pleases every palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to switch things up? Try slicing the Salisbury steaks and layering them over a bed of creamy polenta or buttery egg noodles to create a restaurant-worthy presentation. Another idea is to serve patties inside warm sandwich buns with plenty of gravy-slathered goodness for a hearty Salisbury steak sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Salisbury steak stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the gravy separate can help preserve the texture of the patties, but combining them is perfectly fine if you plan to eat them soon.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked patties and gravy together in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to three months. Just make sure the gravy has cooled completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the gravy has thickened too much during storage. Heating slowly ensures the patties stay tender and the gravy remains silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! While this Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe uses lean ground beef for classic flavor, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a beef and pork blend. Just keep in mind the fat content can affect juiciness and cook time slightly.
Do I have to use brown gravy mix? Can I make my own?
You can definitely make your own gravy from scratch using beef broth, flour, and seasonings. However, the brown gravy mix adds a quick, consistent savory base that fits perfectly with the ease of this recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs and choose a gluten-free brown gravy mix to keep your Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe friendly for gluten sensitivities.
How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
Cook the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef. Visually, the patties should be browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. Cutting one open to check is the easiest way for home cooks.
Can I add vegetables to the gravy?
Definitely! Diced mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers sautéed in the skillet before making the gravy add wonderful texture and deepen the flavor of your gravy, making it even more delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe has a way of turning any ordinary night into something warm, homey, and satisfying. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and rich flavors, it’s a dish I love making again and again—and I hope you’ll enjoy it just as much as I do. Give it a try, and watch how this classic comfort food becomes a fast favorite in your meal rotation!
Print
Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe offers a delicious and comforting meal featuring savory ground beef patties cooked to perfection and simmered in a rich brown gravy. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a satisfying classic dish.
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/3 cup bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Gravy
- 2 packets Brown Gravy Mix (approximately 1 oz each)
- 2 cups hot water
- 1 teaspoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (for cooking patties)
Instructions
- Prepare Patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use clean hands to mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and flatten each into a patty shape.
- Cook Patties: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning. Remove patties from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Gravy: In a bowl, whisk together the brown gravy mix, 2 cups of hot water, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the prepared gravy into the skillet that was used for the patties, including any remaining juices. Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat. Return the cooked patties to the skillet, spoon some gravy over each, and stir gently. Let everything simmer for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly. If the gravy becomes too thick, add ¼ cup of hot water and stir to achieve desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, generously spooning the brown gravy over the patties. This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a hearty and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste; additional Worcestershire sauce or mustard can enhance the flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, simmer it longer but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Avocado oil can be replaced with other neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
