Salisbury steak is a tasty dish of seasoned ground beef patties served with rich onion and mushroom gravy. A one-pan dish that's savory, hearty, and comforting.

Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy is a retro classic dinner that makes an easy, quick, budget-friendly and comforting meal option!
With juicy ground beef patties, savory and rich mushroom gravy, and endless possibilities for customization, this recipe is sure to become a staple. It certainly is at our house!
Salisbury steak is simply made with seasoned ground beef shaped into patties, then simmered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy - using simple ingredients and one pan.
You can have dinner on the table in under an hour, and it tastes like something that took much longer. The gravy thickens right in the skillet, and the patties soak up all that flavor as they finish cooking.
You can serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered noodles. Add some veggies like Arkansas Green Beans with Bacon, or Buttered Cabbage for nourishing meal.
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Why You Should Make This Recipe
- Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy is the epitome of comfort food. It's a hearty, satisfying dish that warms both your body and soul.
- This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, you can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite seasonings, sides, or vegetables.
- Salisbury steak is a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults alike. It's a great way to bring the family together around the dinner table.
- Ground beef is an affordable ingredient, making this recipe a budget-friendly option for delicious home-cooked meals.

What is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak is a classic American dish that typically consists of ground beef shaped into burger-like patties and is often served with a rich brown gravy.
Despite its name, Salisbury steak is not actually steak but rather a ground beef dish.
It is often associated with classic American comfort food and diner-style meals.
History of Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak has an interesting history that dates back to the late 19th century.
It was named after Dr. J.H. Salisbury, an American physician who promoted a meat-heavy diet for health reasons.
Dr. Salisbury believed that a diet consisting mainly of lean beef would prevent various ailments. His version of Salisbury steak consisted of minced beef formed into patties and broiled.
Over time, the dish evolved to include additional ingredients like breadcrumbs, onions, and seasonings, and it became a popular comfort food in American cuisine. Today, Salisbury steak continues to be enjoyed as a delicious and hearty meal option.

Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Ground beef is the main component of the Salisbury steak. It provides the rich, meaty flavor that makes this dish so satisfying.
- Chopped Mushrooms: The mushrooms add a savory and earthy taste to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- All-Purpose Flour: The flour helps thicken the mushroom gravy, giving it a luscious and velvety texture.
- Panko: Panko breadcrumbs are used to bind the ground beef mixture and add a light, crispy texture to the Salisbury steak. Alternatively use regular or Italian breadcrumbs.
- Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping hold the ground beef mixture together and adding moisture to the patties.
- Chopped Onion: Onions contribute their distinct flavor and aroma to the dish, complementing the mushrooms and enhancing the overall savory taste.
- Beef Broth: The beef broth forms the base of the mushroom gravy, providing depth and richness to the dish.
- Butter: Butter is used for frying the mushrooms and onions, imparting a delicious richness to the dish.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy, umami flavor to the Salisbury steak, enhancing its overall taste.
- Mustard: Mustard adds a hint of tanginess and depth of flavor to the ground beef mixture.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the Salisbury steak.
- Garlic Powder: Powdered garlic adds a subtle yet distinct garlic flavor to the dish.
See the recipe card for the full method and quantities.
Instructions
If you're wondering how to make this salisubry steak recipe, don't worry, it's easy!
Just follow this step-by-step photo tutorial. Then scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and recipe method.

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Shape the mixture into round patties, about ½ inch thick. Set aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the onions are translucent. Pour into a bowl and set aside.

Place the beef patties in the center of the skillet (no need to clean from the mushrooms).

Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.

Return the mushrooms and onions to the skillet, then stir in the flour.

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, then gradually stir in the beef broth while stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the gravy thickens and comes to a simmer.
Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. If needed, you can add more broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Return the cooked beef patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the patties simmer in the gravy for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the Salisbury steak hot, spooning the mushroom gravy over the top.

Serving Suggestions
- Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and buttery green beans. The combination of flavors and textures is simply delightful. We love it with Gruyere Au Gratin Potatoes and Cheesy Brussels Sprouts.
- Noodles or Rice: For a change of pace, serve the Salisbury steak and mushroom gravy over buttered egg noodles or fluffy rice. It creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Side Salad: To add a fresh element to your plate, serve a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette alongside the steak. The vibrant greens complement the richness of the dish.
- Dinner Rolls: Don't forget some warm, crusty dinner rolls or garlic bread on the side to mop up that delicious mushroom gravy.

Variations
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Add grated cheese to the patties for extra richness.
- Swap mushrooms for caramelized onions if you prefer a smoother gravy.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free option.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for brightness.
- Include a splash of cream in the gravy for extra richness.
- Make mini patties for a quicker cooking time.
- Add a dash of soy sauce for deeper umami flavor.
- Use red wine in the gravy for a more complex taste.
- Try adding smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
Make Ahead
If you want to make Salisbury steak ahead of time and have it ready to cook later, here are the instructions:
- Prepare the Salisbury steak mixture according to the recipe.
- Shape the ground beef mixture into patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- When you're ready to cook, follow the cooking instructions in the recipe, starting from step 7.
Note: If you need to store the shaped patties for longer than 24 hours, it's best to freeze them instead. Place the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Thaw the frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, and then proceed with the cooking instructions as directed in the recipe.
By making the Salisbury steak ahead of time, you can save preparation time and have a convenient option for quick and delicious meals.
Storage and Freezing
Storing: Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze Salisbury steak for later use, it's best to do so before cooking. Shape the uncooked patties, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze them individually for 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they're labeled with the date and contents. Keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy Salisbury steak whenever you desire.
Reheating: Thaw the frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight if necessary. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a touch of oil or butter. Cook the Salisbury steak patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring they're heated through. In a separate saucepan, gently warm the mushroom gravy over low heat. Once both components are heated, pour the gravy over the patties and simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy is piping hot. Then, plate up and relish the delectable reheated Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy.
Remember to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
FAQ
While ground beef is the traditional choice for Salisbury steak, you can certainly experiment with other ground meats like pork, chicken, or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Yes, you can shape the Salisbury steaks ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours until you're ready to cook. This can be a time-saving option for busy schedules.
Yes, you can freeze the cooked Salisbury steak in an airtight container, or freezer bags, for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
📖 Recipe

Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Skillet
- Pot
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steaks
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt and pepper
For the Mushroom Gravy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 8 ounces mushrooms sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, powdered garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Shape the mixture into round patties, about ½ inch thick. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the onions are translucent. Pour into a bowl and set aside.
- Place the beef patties in the center of the skillet (no need to clean from the mushrooms). Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
- Return the mushrooms and onions to the skillet, then stir in the flour.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, then gradually stir in the beef broth while stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the gravy thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. If needed, you can add more broth or water to adjust the consistency.
- Return the cooked beef patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the patties simmer in the gravy for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve the Salisbury steak hot, spooning the mushroom gravy over the top.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.







Beth says
I love simple, downhome recipes like this one. They're easy, hearty, and delicious. That's exactly the kind of thing you need when you have kids!
Sharon says
This Salisbury steak recipe was the perfect Sunday dinner. The homemade gravy was the perfect topping too.
Elizabeth says
I loved the flavor that the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard brought to the gravy. This is also a very easy recipe to make on a busy weeknight.
May says
This salisubry steak is absolutely amazing! Loved how delicious was, and the recipe is so easy!
Cathleen says
I have always wanted to make salisbury steak, and it was so much easier than I though! The kids called them burger steaks.