Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy

Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender, seasoned beef patties with a rich, savory gravy. It’s a nostalgic recipe that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to the table, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you crave something hearty and satisfying.

The dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered noodles. The seasoned beef patties are pan-seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a homemade brown gravy infused with caramelized onions and beefy goodness. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Flavorful: Juicy beef patties combined with rich, velvety brown gravy create a meal that’s pure comfort.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a fuss-free option for busy weeknights.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, it’s a wallet-friendly dinner.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or add vegetables for a dish that suits your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 beef patty with gravy

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Salisbury Steaks:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Brown Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 2: Sear the Patties

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil or a pat of butter.
2. Add the patties to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage as they will finish cooking in the gravy.
3. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

1. Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

1. Return the seared patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F).
3. Spoon the gravy over the patties occasionally during cooking to infuse them with flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Ingredient Background

Ground Beef

A blend with 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal for Salisbury steak as it provides the right amount of fat for flavor and juiciness. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs bind the beef mixture, ensuring the patties hold their shape while remaining tender. Panko or regular breadcrumbs both work well.

Beef Broth

Beef broth forms the base of the gravy, adding depth and savoriness. Low-sodium broth is a good choice if you want to control the salt content.

Worcestershire Sauce

A key ingredient in both the patties and gravy, Worcestershire sauce adds umami and enhances the savory flavors.

Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard adds a tangy complexity to the gravy, balancing its richness.

Technique Tips

Don’t Overmix the Beef: Overmixing can result in dense, tough patties. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Sear for Flavor: Searing the patties before adding them to the gravy locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust.

Deglaze the Skillet: When adding broth to the skillet, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate them into the gravy for added flavor.

Simmer Gently: Cook the patties in the gravy over low heat to keep them tender and prevent the gravy from over-reducing.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Individual Servings: Serve each patty on a small plate with a drizzle of gravy, mashed potatoes, and a side of green beans for an elegant individual presentation.

Family-Style Platter: Arrange the patties on a large platter, pour the gravy over them, and garnish with parsley. Serve alongside a bowl of mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

Layered Casserole: Place the patties in a casserole dish, cover with gravy, and bake briefly at 350°F to heat through before serving.

Additional Tips for Success

Adjust the Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thin, simmer it longer to reduce and thicken. If it’s too thick, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it.

Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh thyme or parsley to the gravy enhances its flavor and presentation.

Make Ahead: Prepare the patties and gravy up to a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Recipe Variations

Mushroom Gravy Salisbury Steak: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet when caramelizing the onions for an earthy twist.

Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Top each patty with a slice of cheese (like Swiss or cheddar) and let it melt before serving.

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute cornstarch for flour in the gravy.

Low-Carb Option: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour and serve the patties with cauliflower mash.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftover patties and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to thin the gravy if needed.

Freezing: Freeze the cooked patties and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Lean Protein: Use lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content while maintaining flavor.

Whole-Grain Breadcrumbs: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with whole-grain crumbs for added fiber.

Vegetable-Boosted Gravy: Add finely diced carrots or celery to the gravy for extra nutrients and texture.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner: Pair Salisbury steak with buttery mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a comforting, family-friendly meal.

Dinner Party: Plate the patties elegantly with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, and a drizzle of gravy. Add a fresh salad to round out the menu.

Holiday Comfort Food: Serve alongside stuffing, cranberry sauce, and baked sweet potatoes for a unique twist on holiday dinner.

Special Equipment

Large Skillet: A wide skillet ensures even cooking for the patties and provides enough space to make the gravy.

Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check that the patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F for food safety.

Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the gravy and scraping up the browned bits from the skillet for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner option. Adjust the seasonings slightly to enhance flavor.
2. What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?
   If the gravy is too thin, simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Prepare the patties and gravy up to a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.
4. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
   Panko, crushed crackers, or almond flour are great substitutes for breadcrumbs.
5. How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
   Ensure the mixture is well combined and the patties are shaped firmly. Chilling them for 15 minutes before cooking can also help.
6. Can I freeze Salisbury steak?
   Yes, freeze the cooked patties and gravy separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. What sides pair well with this dish?
   Mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, steamed broccoli, or green beans are excellent choices.
8. Can I use pre-made gravy?
   While homemade gravy adds more depth, pre-made gravy can be used for convenience.

Conclusion

Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy is a timeless comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. The tender, flavorful beef patties and rich, savory gravy come together to create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a casual dinner party, or simply craving a hearty, nostalgic dish, this recipe is sure to please.

With customizable options, make-ahead convenience, and a universally loved flavor profile, Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try this recipe today and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

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