This Easy Salisbury Steak is the perfect dish for cozy weeknights! Juicy beef patties are smothered in a rich mushroom gravy that warms you from the inside out.
It’s really quick to make, which is a lifesaver after a long day. I love serving it with mashed potatoes—a match made in comfort food heaven! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for the best flavor and moisture. If you want a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken also works but may need more seasoning.
Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs help bind the patties. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
Mushrooms: Fresh sliced mushrooms enhance the gravy flavor. If you don’t have them, canned mushrooms can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
Beef Broth: Homemade is great if you have it; otherwise, low-sodium store-bought is perfect. For a lighter option, use vegetable broth without compromising too much on taste.
Tomato Paste: This adds depth to the flavor. If you want to skip it, a splash of ketchup can be an acceptable substitute but adjust the sweetness accordingly.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Browned Patties?
Cooking the patties to a nice golden brown is key for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding oil. This helps to sear the patties instead of just cooking them.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if needed. This ensures better browning.
- Let them cook without moving them too much. A good sear takes a few minutes, so be patient!
Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe for Cozy Weeknights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Salisbury Steak takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a perfect choice for a cozy weeknight meal. In just under an hour, you’ll have hearty, comforting steaks ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Patty Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir lightly until everything is mixed just enough—be careful not to overmix, or your patties might end up dense!
2. Shaping the Patties:
Once mixed, shape the beef mixture into 4 oval-shaped patties. Aim for about 3/4-inch thick so they cook evenly.
3. Browning the Patties:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re browned and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sautéing the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, without cleaning it, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them over medium heat until they soften, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Making the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the softened mushrooms, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour slightly. This will help thicken the gravy.
6. Adding Liquid:
Slowly whisk in the beef broth, followed by the optional tomato paste and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Cooking the Patties in Gravy:
Return the cooked patties to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together while ensuring the patties are heated through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve your Salisbury Steak hot with mashed potatoes or your favorite cozy side dishes. Enjoy your comforting meal!
FAQ for Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe
Can I Use Leaner Beef for the Patties?
While 80% lean beef is ideal for flavor and moisture, you can use leaner beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the patties may be less juicy, so adding a bit more seasoning or some olive oil can help keep them flavorful.
How Do I Store Leftover Salisbury Steak?
You can store leftover Salisbury steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep the gravy moist.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked Salisbury steaks with gravy in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little beef broth if necessary.
What Can I Serve with Salisbury Steak?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Roasted vegetables or a simple side salad also make great accompaniments to round out the meal.
