The Very Best Salisbury Steak
Ingredients:
For the Steak Patties:
- 1 1/2 lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions:
1. Make the Steak Patties:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overwork the meat).
- Shape the mixture into 4-6 oval-shaped patties, about 1/2-inch thick.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove the patties and set aside.
2. Make the Mushroom Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Finish Cooking the Steak Patties:
- Return the seared patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and tender.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Salisbury steak patties smothered in mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or rice.
- Pair with a side of steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
This Salisbury Steak recipe is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s a timeless dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! Let me know if you’d like tips for variations or substitutions. 😊